Israel and Hamas have agreed to a ceasefire following 15 months of fighting in the Gaza Strip. The agreement, announced Wednesday and set to begin Sunday, aims to halt hostilities, facilitate the release of hostages held by Hamas, and allow the return of Palestinian prisoners from Israeli custody.

Under the terms of the agreement, Hamas will release hostages in phases, starting with women, children, and elderly individuals, while Israel will reciprocate by releasing hundreds of Palestinian prisoners. 

Israeli forces will also withdraw from populated areas in Gaza as part of the ceasefire, allowing displaced Palestinians to return to their homes. 

The ceasefire deal, brokered with the help of Qatar, Egypt, and the United States, also includes measures to address the severe humanitarian crisis in Gaza.

The ceasefire is the result of extensive negotiations between mediators and representatives from both sides. 

Mediators plan to meet in Cairo to finalize details of the ceasefire implementation and to address the long-term challenges of rebuilding Gaza and ensuring stability in the region.

Since the conflict between Hamas and Israel began on October 7, 2023, following Hamas’ cross-border assault, over 46,000 Palestinians have been killed, according to local health officials, while more than 1,200 Israelis have lost their lives, with 250 taken hostage. In Gaza, nearly 90% of the population has been displaced, and widespread destruction has left homes, hospitals, and essential services in ruins.