Implementing Gaza ceasefire agreement: A significant breakthrough

Qatar and the United States, mediators for the Gaza ceasefire agreement, officially announced a ceasefire and prisoner exchange deal between Israel and Hamas on the morning of January 16 (Vietnam time). After prolonged stalemates and challenging negotiations, the agreement marks a significant breakthrough toward ending the conflict, paving the way for stability in Gaza and opening channels for dialogue to advance the Middle East peace process.

The joy of relatives of Israeli hostages held in the Gaza Strip, following the announcement of the ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas, January 15, 2025.

The ceasefire will take effect on January 19, during which Hamas will release 33 hostages in the first phase, lasting six weeks, in exchange for Israel freeing Palestinian detainees.

Details of subsequent phases will be revealed after the completion of the initial phase. Over the next six weeks, Israel will continue negotiations to address necessary issues for the second phase, aiming for a long-term resolution. Qatar, Egypt, and the United States have pledged to oversee the ceasefire implementation and take necessary steps to maintain stability in Gaza.

In a televised address following the announcement, Israeli President Isaac Herzog emphasised that the agreement is a rightful step to bring home the hostages held by Hamas. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu held phone calls with US President Joe Biden and President-elect Donald Trump.

The United Nations, the European Union, and numerous countries worldwide welcomed the agreement, highlighting it as a critical step in maintaining stability in the Middle East. The deal provides an opportunity to end the conflict and improve the humanitarian situation in Gaza, facilitating emergency aid for those left homeless.

Philippe Lazzarini, the head of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA), urged the prompt and unobstructed delivery of aid to Gaza.

The year-long conflict in Gaza, combined with deep-seated divisions between Israel and Palestine, has stalled the Middle East peace process. The ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas provides momentum for dialogue to address the longstanding disputes, offering hope for achieving broader goals such as the unity and integrity of the Occupied Palestinian Territories (OPT) and a two-state solution to the Israel-Palestine conflict.

These are key factors for achieving lasting peace and stability in the region, paving the way for a better future for both Palestinians and Israelis.

While the ceasefire agreement sparks hope, its implementation faces numerous challenges. All parties must adhere to their commitments to ensure effective execution, allowing humanitarian aid to reach affected individuals quickly and safely. Respecting the ceasefire is a crucial trust-building measure for progressing toward the next steps. Mediation efforts must be intensified to achieve a comprehensive political solution to end the conflict entirely.

After years of blockade and war, Gaza and other Palestinian territories face a severe economic crisis. Rebuilding Gaza is an immense task. Meanwhile, ongoing violence in Palestinian territories, along with disagreements and divisions between Israel and Palestine, continues to obstruct progress toward a two-state solution.

In addition to ensuring the full implementation of the ceasefire in Gaza, the international community must unite to support reconstruction efforts, strengthen Palestinian institutions and economy, and facilitate further dialogues to advance the two-state solution. Ensuring Palestinian self-determination is key to achieving lasting peace in the Middle East.

NDO