After more than 15 months of relentless conflict, Hamas and Israel have finally reached a ceasefire agreement set to commence on Sunday at 8:30 a.m. local time in Gaza (06:30 GMT). This historic deal marks the first phase of a three-part plan lasting 42 days.
Under the terms of the ceasefire, Hamas is obligated to release 33 hostages, while Israel has committed to a phased withdrawal of its troops from the northern Gaza Strip. Additionally, Israel will begin the release of Palestinian prisoners, fostering a path toward lasting peace.
Key to the implementation of this agreement is the reopening of the Rafah crossing on Sunday, as confirmed by an Egyptian security source. This crossing, the sole channel linking Gaza with Egypt, is expected to welcome approximately 600 aid trucks, delivering much-needed humanitarian assistance to the region.
Stay tuned as our reporters from Gaza, Erez Crossing, Tel Aviv's Hostages Square, and Egypt's Rafah crossing provide continuous on-the-ground coverage of this pivotal development.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
