What we know on the Israel-Hamas ceasefire, and what it means for Gaza and the hostages

A ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas could end 15 months of war in Gaza that has seen tens of thousands of people killed and left hostages in limbo.

TEL AVIV — A ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas has been reached after 15 months of devastating war that has seen tens of thousands of people killed in the Gaza Strip, left scores of Israeli hostages in painful limbo and changed the face of the Middle East.

The truce, initially announced Wednesday, is expected to stop the Israeli bombardment of Gaza that has killed more than 46,500 people and caused a devastating humanitarian crisis, according to local health officials. It will also see the phased release of dozens of hostages captured during the Oct. 7 2023, terror attack who are still being held in Gaza, as well as the release of hundreds of Palestinians detained by Israel.

Hundreds of trucks of desperately needed aid are also expected to start entering the enclave daily once the ceasefire comes into force.

Here’s what we know so far about the three-phase deal: 

The agreement outlines a roughly six-week initial ceasefire phase that could begin as early as this weekend.

https://www.nbcnews.com/news/world/israel-hamas-ceasefire-gaza-rcna187913

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