What we know about the Gaza truce between Israel and Hamas

The long-awaited ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas in Gaza, facilitated by the US, Qatar, and Egypt, is expected to take effect on Sunday, with onlookers hoping its foundations are strong enough to definitely end the devastating, 15-month conflict. Although Israel says it has not yet officially agreed to the deal, which was announced Wednesday, key components of the agreement have been revealed.

Key mediator Qatar said on Wednesday that 33 hostages held by Hamas in Gaza would be released in the first stage of a ceasefire deal aimed at ending the war in the Palestinian territory.

Two sources close to Hamas earlier told AFP that Israel would release about 1,000 Palestinian prisoners, while an Israeli government spokesman said hundreds would be released.

Below are the key details of the expected initial phase of the deal according to Qatari, US, Israeli and Palestinian officials and media reports.

Prisoner-hostage swap

Qatar said Wednesday that Israel and Hamas had agreed to a ceasefire in Gaza starting on Sunday and a hostage and prisoner exchange after 15 months of war.

(AFP)


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