Ceasefire Agreement Reached Between Hamas and Israel

On January 15, 2025, President Joe Biden announced a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas after over 15 months of conflict, which had resulted in significant loss of life and hostage situations. The deal is structured in three phases, with the first phase set to last 42 days, allowing for the release of hostages, including women, the elderly, and wounded individuals, alongside Palestinian prisoners. Families of hostages, such as Sagui Dekel-Chen, expressed cautious optimism about the potential release of their loved ones, while also acknowledging the uncertainty surrounding the agreement's implementation. Critics, including human rights activists, voiced concerns about the timing of the ceasefire and emphasized the need for sustained advocacy for justice in Gaza. Some families also noted that long-held hostages, like Abera Mengistu and Hisham al-Sayed, appeared to be included in the deal as an afterthought. Overall, while the ceasefire offers a glimmer of hope, many remain wary of its durability and the challenges ahead.