But the basic outline of the agreement had been on the table for many months. By accepting it, both sides are giving up on key demands. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had vowed to destroy Hamas, yet the group remains the strongest actor in Gaza. Hamas in turn wanted a complete Israeli withdrawal and guarantees that Israel would not resume operations, both of which remain uncertain.
The long-awaited cease-fire agreement between Israel and Hamas, now underway in Gaza, includes significant gains for both sides. Israel will get back its remaining hostages—about 20 are believed to be alive—along with the bodies of others. In return, it will release some 2,000 Palestinian prisoners, according to reports , end its two-year war on Gaza, and pull troops from large parts of the territory. The Trump administration deserves credit for pushing a deal through.
The long-awaited cease-fire agreement between Israel and Hamas, now underway in Gaza, includes significant gains for both sides. Israel will get back its remaining hostages—about 20 are believed to be alive—along with the bodies of others.
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