After more than a year since the start of yet another Israeli-Palestinian conflict over the Gaza Strip, international diplomacies have managed to reach terms of an agreement that finally provides for a “Ceasefire in Gaza.”
A 3-stage ceasefire agreement between Hamas and Israel has been confirmed: starting on Sunday, January 19, and over the next 6 weeks, a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip, partial release of hostages and prisoners, and a phased withdrawal of Israeli troops are expected. The understanding was found in Qatar and brokered by the United States. The agreement sparked great celebration in Palestine, where the exhausted local population poured into the streets in excitement.
Not yet certain is the fate of the Gaza Strip after the withdrawal of Israeli troops: the plan to rebuild the territory will be overseen by the international community but has not yet been detailed and the process will need time and most likely a joint effort by the Palestinian National Authority (PNA) and the civilian population.