On January 19th, 2025, an official ceasefire was announced in the Israel Gaza war. The peace deal was mediated by the US, Egypt, and Qatar.
Today, Hamas released six more hostages.
The first stage of the ceasefire is expected to last for 42 days and is likely to lead to the transfer of all Israeli hostages taken captive on October 7th, and some hostages who have been in Gaza for longer.
In return, Israel has released several hundred Palestinians. Israel is to release 30 prisoners for each civilian and 50 for each soldier.
On January 25th, Hamas released 4 hostages and Israel released 200 Hamas prisoners.
On January 30, Hamas released 8 hostages, including 5 Thai nationals, while Israel released 110 prisoners.
On February 1, 3 Israelis were returned for 183 Palestinians.
By 19th February, 24 hostages had been exchanged for over 1000 Palestinians.
How has the ceasefire progressed?
The ceasefire has, by and large, led to peace in the conflict regions. Both sides – Israel and Palestine (Hamas), have made claims and counter claims.
What happens now?
Talks are ongoing among all concerned parties, with the US as an active mediator.