Gaza Ceasefire to Commence on Sunday, January 19, 2025
In a significant turn of events, the ceasefire in Gaza is set to begin this Sunday, January 19, 2025, at 8:30 local time (0630 GMT). The announcement was made by Qatar’s Foreign Ministry, raising hopes for peace in the region.
Caution Urged by Qatar’s Foreign Ministry Spokesperson
Majed al-Ansari, the spokesperson for Qatar’s Foreign Ministry, took to social media to share the news, stating, “Following coordination among the parties to the agreement and mediators, the ceasefire in Gaza will commence at 8:30 am local time on Sunday, January 19.” He emphasized the importance of caution among residents and advised them to await instructions from official sources.
Israel Approves Ceasefire Agreement
Meanwhile, the Israeli government has officially approved the ceasefire agreement mediated with the Palestinian Resistance. According to Axios, 24 Israeli ministers voted in favor of the agreement, while eight ministers opposed the ceasefire deal in Gaza. This development comes after 470 days of conflict in Gaza and intense negotiation rounds leading to a multi-phase agreement.
Details of the First Phase of Ceasefire Agreement
A Palestinian source revealed exclusive details to Al Mayadeen regarding a prisoner exchange related to the ceasefire agreement. As part of the agreement, 30 Palestinian prisoners, including women and children, will be released from Israeli prisons on Friday, January 17, 2025. Additionally, for each elderly prisoner aged 50 or above or those suffering from illnesses, 30 elderly prisoners or sick Palestinian individuals will be set free.
The source further explained that for every Israeli female soldier released, 30 Palestinian prisoners serving life sentences and 20 others with long sentences will be exchanged. The initial phase of the agreement focuses on Palestinian prisoners who were previously part of a swap deal in 2011 but were later re-arrested by Israeli authorities, totaling 47 individuals.
Moreover, the agreement ensures that the released Palestinian prisoners will not be rearrested on the same charges and will not be required to serve the remainder of their initial sentences or sign any documents for their release.
This breakthrough in the Gaza ceasefire agreement brings a glimmer of hope for lasting peace in the region, with both sides taking significant steps towards de-escalation and reconciliation. As the ceasefire comes into effect, the world watches closely, anticipating a new chapter of cooperation and understanding in the Middle East.
