Israel and Hamas reached an agreement on the release of hostages and a ceasefire in Gaza.

Israel and Hamas have reached an agreement on the release of hostages and a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip

Israel and Hamas have agreed to establish a ceasefire and release hostages in the Gaza Strip. This was reported by American and Israeli officials, Axios reports.

According to Israeli intelligence, around 98 hostages remain hidden in Gaza, including seven Americans. It is assumed that more than half of them, including three Americans, have managed to avoid death. The agreement stipulates that 33 hostages will be released in the first phase - women, children, men over 50, as well as injured and ill men under 50.

The release process will take place in stages over 42 days, during which a ceasefire will be in effect. Israeli forces will gradually withdraw to a buffer zone near the border with Gaza, leaving the Netzarim corridors in the center of the Gaza Strip and Philadelphia at the border between Gaza and Egypt.

The complete withdrawal of troops will occur only after the return of all hostages. Palestinians will be allowed to return to northern Gaza on the condition of adhering to security measures that prevent the movement of militants and weapons.

According to the agreement, several hundred Palestinian prisoners will also be released, including those who committed murders of Israelis. The exact number of released prisoners will be determined after the fate of the hostages from Hamas is established.

The situation in the Gaza Strip and the search for a political solution

Israel's military operation in the Gaza Strip has led to significant losses among Hamas militants. However, the situation in the region remains complex, thus Israel is seeking a political solution along with international partners to create a new government that recognizes Israel.

Hamas has also agreed to release 34 Israeli hostages on the condition of new exchange agreements.