Tue Jan 14 13:03:06 UTC 2025: ## Gaza Ceasefire Deal Nears, But Uncertainties Remain

**Doha, Qatar/Amman, Jordan –** A ceasefire in the 15-month conflict between Israel and Hamas in Gaza appears imminent, according to Qatari mediators. While negotiations are in their final stages, with major obstacles addressed, officials caution that a formal agreement is not yet guaranteed.

Qatar’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson, Majed al-Ansari, stated Tuesday that a draft agreement has been presented to both sides, and key contentious issues have been resolved. He described the current discussions as the closest to a deal yet, predicting implementation “very shortly” after finalization. However, he urged caution against excessive optimism until a formal announcement.

The proposed deal, according to leaked Israeli media reports, involves a three-phase process. The first phase would see the release of 33 Israeli captives held in Gaza, followed by the release of Palestinian prisoners in exchange. This would be followed by further prisoner releases and finally, long-term arrangements including an alternative Gaza government and reconstruction efforts. Israel’s complete withdrawal from the Philadelphi Corridor is also reportedly part of the first phase. The Palestinian Islamic Jihad also participated in Tuesday’s discussions.

Despite the progress, uncertainties remain. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is holding urgent security consultations, and Al Jazeera reports that the ceasefire might only be a temporary pause in hostilities, not a definitive end to the conflict. The Palestinian Authority (PA) has banned Al Jazeera from operating in the occupied West Bank.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken also expressed confidence in a ceasefire agreement, outlining a “day after” plan that includes international assistance for a PA interim administration in Gaza, a proposal repeatedly rejected by Israel. He emphasized the need for a post-conflict plan to prevent Hamas from regaining control and ensure Gaza’s governance, security, and reconstruction. Blinken also acknowledged that a military solution alone would not defeat Hamas.

Meanwhile, Israeli attacks continue, with at least 38 Palestinians killed on Tuesday alone, including two children. The death toll of Palestinian civilians in Gaza has surpassed 46,000. The number of Palestinian media workers killed also tragically rose to 204. The ongoing violence casts a shadow on the fragile hope for a lasting peace.

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