The agreement includes a six-week initial ceasefire with the gradual withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza, where tens of thousands have lost their lives. Hostages held by Hamas will be released in exchange for Palestinian prisoners held by Israel.The deal also calls for a significant increase in humanitarian assistance to Gaza, with the United Nations and the International Committee of the Red Cross preparing to step up their humanitarian aid operations.The war began after Hamas’ cross-border attack on Oct. 7, 2023, during which some 1,200 Israelis were killed and 250 others were taken hostage.Israel responded with a brutal bombing campaign and ground invasion of the Gaza Strip, killing over 46,000 people, mostly women and children, according to Palestinian health officials. The war has also displaced an estimated 90% of Gaza’s population and sparked a humanitarian crisis.
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