KKN Gurugram Desk |  In a significant development, a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas came into effect on Sunday, marking a step toward de-escalating the 15-month-long war in Gaza. On the first day of the truce, three Israeli hostages were released by Hamas, and in return, 90 Palestinian prisoners were freed by Israel. The conflict, which began after Hamas’ deadly October 7, 2023 attack, has caused unprecedented devastation in Gaza, claiming over 47,000 Palestinian lives and leaving the region in ruins.

Key Points on Gaza Ceasefire and Prisoner Exchange

1. First Day of the Ceasefire:
   • Hamas released three Israeli hostages, identified as Emily Damari, Romi Gonen, and Doron Steinbrecher. Emotional reunions with their mothers were captured in videos shared by the Israeli military.
   • Israel reciprocated by releasing 90 Palestinian prisoners as part of the initial agreement.
2. Scope of the Ceasefire Agreement:
   • A total of 33 hostages taken by Hamas during the October 2023 attack will be released in the initial 42-day truce. Israel, in return, will free hundreds of Palestinian prisoners.
   • Future negotiations are expected to cover the release of all remaining hostages and the return of the deceased, followed by plans for reconstructing Gaza.
3. The October 7 Attack:
   • Hamas’ attack on Israeli towns resulted in 1,210 deaths, mostly civilians.
   • Of the 251 hostages taken, 94 remain in Gaza, with Israeli authorities confirming 34 among them are deceased.
4. Truce Delays and Challenges:
   • The ceasefire, initially scheduled for 0630 GMT, was delayed by nearly three hours after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu demanded that Hamas provide the names of the hostages scheduled for release. Hamas cited “technical field reasons” for the delay but later complied.
5. Prime Minister Netanyahu’s Statement:
   • Netanyahu welcomed the release of the hostages, stating, “They have emerged from darkness. Romi, Doron, and Emily—an entire nation embraces you. I promise: We will bring everyone home.”
6. Humanitarian Crisis in Gaza:
   • Israeli airstrikes, launched in retaliation for Hamas’ October attack, have devastated Gaza, killing over 47,000 Palestinians and injuring more than 110,000.
   • The conflict has left almost the entire population of 2.3 million Gazans homeless, with extensive damage to infrastructure and essential services.
7. Historical Context:
   • The last truce occurred in November 2023, lasting a week, during which Hamas released several hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners.
8. Future Negotiations:
   • Talks for the second phase of the truce will begin on the 16th day of the current ceasefire, focusing on the release of all remaining hostages and comprehensive plans for rebuilding Gaza.
9. Rebuilding Gaza:
   • Any agreements in subsequent phases are expected to address the humanitarian crisis, including aid distribution, rebuilding essential infrastructure, and providing housing for displaced residents.
10. International Observations:
    • The ceasefire has been welcomed globally, but the scale of destruction and human suffering in Gaza has drawn widespread criticism and calls for immediate humanitarian aid.

The Human Cost of the Conflict

The war between Israel and Hamas has had catastrophic consequences:

• In Gaza:
  • Over 47,000 deaths and 110,000 injuries.
  • Nearly the entire population is displaced, facing food, water, and shelter shortages.
• In Israel:
  • Over 1,200 deaths during Hamas’ attack, described as the deadliest in Israeli history.

The violence has highlighted the urgent need for long-term solutions to prevent further suffering and establish lasting peace in the region.

Reactions and Hope for Peace

The prisoner exchange marks a significant step in reducing hostilities. However, the road ahead remains challenging, with the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and unresolved political tensions requiring urgent attention. Leaders worldwide have urged both sides to focus on rebuilding trust and prioritizing the welfare of affected civilians.