Israel and Hamas sign ceasefire and hostage release agreement in Doha

An agreement between Israel and Hamas to facilitate a ceasefire and the release of hostages held in Gaza was officially signed by negotiators in Doha on Thursday, according to sources close to the discussions. However, the Israeli government’s vote on the deal is not expected until Saturday night, delaying its implementation.

The delay will postpone the start of the ceasefire and the release of the first group of hostages, initially planned for Sunday, to at least Monday, according to Israeli officials. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office confirmed he was briefed on the finalized agreement and instructed the hostage coordinator to prepare for its implementation.

Last-minute disputes over the list of Palestinian prisoners to be released slowed the negotiations. Hamas reportedly pushed to include military leaders convicted of planning suicide bombings, a move Israel had previously vetoed. Intense mediation by U.S. officials, including Brett McGurk, alongside Qatari and Egyptian representatives, resolved the issue, though negotiations stretched late into Wednesday night.

The agreement’s signing involved representatives from Israel, Qatar, Hamas, and the U.S., with guarantees from Qatar, Egypt, and the U.S. for its execution. However, internal political tensions in Israel have cast a shadow over the deal. Netanyahu faces opposition from key coalition partners, including Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich and National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir, who have threatened to resign or withdraw support.

The deal outlines the release of 33 hostages in its first phase, prioritizing women, children, the elderly, and injured men. Israel will release over 700 Palestinian prisoners, including those serving life sentences. Aid provisions, including 600 daily truckloads of supplies and shelter materials for displaced Palestinians, will also be facilitated.

During the six-week ceasefire, the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) will retreat to designated buffer zones in Gaza, enabling some displaced Palestinians to return to northern Gaza under the supervision of Qatari and Egyptian officials.

Negotiations for a second phase, addressing remaining hostages and a permanent ceasefire, are slated to begin midway through the ceasefire. Despite political opposition, Netanyahu is expected to secure a majority in the cabinet vote, ensuring the deal’s approval.

The agreement marks a critical step in de-escalating tensions, but its implementation will be closely watched amidst ongoing political and logistical challenges.