Finally, a breakthrough in Gaza conflict? Hamas says ceasefire agreement within reach

Hamas and two other Palestinian militant groups said Saturday (December 21) that a Gaza ceasefire agreement with Israel is “closer than ever,” provided no new conditions are imposed by Israel.

“The possibility of reaching an agreement (for a ceasefire and a prisoner exchange deal) is closer than ever, provided the enemy stops imposing new conditions,” Hamas, Islamic Jihad, and the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine said in a joint statement following talks in Cairo on Friday (December 20).

Indirect negotiations between Israel and Hamas, mediated by Qatar, Egypt, and the United States, were held last week in Doha, raising hopes of a potential deal.

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A Hamas leader, speaking on condition of anonymity, told AFP that talks had seen “significant and important progress” in recent days.

“Most points related to the ceasefire and prisoner exchange issues have been agreed upon,” the official said. “Some unresolved points remain, but they do not hinder the process. The agreement could be finalized before the end of this year, provided it is not disrupted by (Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin) Netanyahu’s new conditions.”

Long walk to Israel-Hamas ceasefire

Efforts to establish a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas have been ongoing, with recent negotiations indicating potential progress. Mediators from the United States, Egypt, and Qatar have been actively involved in facilitating discussions aimed at ending the 14-month conflict in Gaza.

The proposed phased plan likely includes an initial ceasefire lasting six to eight weeks, during which Hamas would release approximately 30 hostages, and Israel would free Palestinian prisoners. This phase also envisions increased humanitarian aid to Gaza and the reopening of the Rafah crossing with Egypt, according to a recent report by AP.

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The swift progress in the ceasefire deal efforts came after Hamas officials indicated a willingness to be more flexible on the timing of an Israeli troop withdrawal from Gaza.

With inputs from agencies