Late on Friday, the Israeli cabinet officially approved a ceasefire agreement with Hamas, marking a significant step toward peace after over 15 months of conflict in Gaza. The deal, brokered through intense negotiations mediated by the United States, Egypt, and Qatar, is seen as a breakthrough in addressing humanitarian and security issues.
Central Figures in the Negotiations
David Barnea
As the head of Israel’s Mossad intelligence agency, Barnea led Israel’s negotiation team alongside military and political advisers to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. His strategic insights and low-profile approach were critical in defining Israel’s stance during the talks.
Ronen Bar
The Shin Bet security agency head, Ronen Bar, played a pivotal role in resolving issues concerning Palestinian security prisoners. Under the agreement, Israel will release hundreds of Palestinian prisoners in exchange for hostages held by Hamas. Despite accepting responsibility for security lapses during Hamas’s October 2023 attacks, Bar’s efforts were key to reaching the ceasefire.
Brett McGurk
President Joe Biden’s top Middle East adviser spearheaded the U.S. delegation’s efforts. With extensive experience in the region, McGurk worked tirelessly to bridge gaps between Israel and Hamas, drafting proposals and facilitating dialogue.
Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani
Qatar’s prime minister and foreign minister led his country’s mediation efforts as the host of the negotiations. His involvement was crucial in maintaining communication between the parties and ensuring the agreement’s progress.
Hassan Rashad
The director of Egypt’s General Intelligence Agency served as a liaison with Hamas, continuing Egypt’s historic role in mediating between Israel and Palestinian factions. Rashad’s efforts will extend to overseeing the deal’s implementation.
Khalil al-Hayya
The acting head of Hamas’s political bureau took over negotiations following the death of Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar. Al-Hayya worked through Egyptian and Qatari mediators to represent Hamas’s interests during the discussions.
Key Provisions of the Ceasefire Agreement
- Hostage and Prisoner Exchange: Hamas will release 33 Israeli hostages, including women, children, and elderly individuals. In return, Israel will release hundreds of Palestinian prisoners, starting with 95 detainees.
- Israeli Military Withdrawal: Israeli forces will pull back from densely populated areas in Gaza to facilitate exchanges and allow displaced Palestinians to return home, maintaining an 800-meter buffer zone.
- Monitoring Mechanism: Mediators from Qatar, the U.S., and Egypt will oversee implementation through a monitoring body in Cairo.
- Future Talks: Negotiations for a long-term resolution and additional hostage releases will begin on the 16th day of the ceasefire.
Hope for Peace?
The ceasefire agreement, initially set for 42 days, provides a window for humanitarian relief and future negotiations. While President Biden expressed optimism for a lasting peace, both Hamas and Israeli officials remain cautious about its durability.
As displaced Gaza residents prepare to return and Israeli families await the release of their loved ones, the deal offers a glimmer of hope. Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani expressed optimism, stating, “We hope this will be the last page of the war.”
