06/02 • THE GAZA CEASEFIRE

The conflict between Israel and Hamas, which began in October 2023, has led to significant casualties and widespread destruction in Gaza. After 15 months of hostilities, a ceasefire agreement was reached in January 2025, mediated by Egypt, Qatar, and the United States. 

The ceasefire officially took effect on January 19, 2025, at 11:15 a.m. local time, following a brief delay from the initially scheduled time.  The agreement includes a six-week cessation of hostilities, during which Hamas is expected to release 33 Israeli hostages, including women, children, and elderly men. In exchange, Israel will release Palestinian detainees, primarily women and minors. 

A critical component of the ceasefire is the facilitation of humanitarian aid to Gaza. The agreement stipulates the entry of humanitarian aid, including food and medical supplies, to alleviate the dire conditions in the region. 

With displaced residents returning to northern Gaza, Al Ahli Hospital is experiencing an overwhelming surge in patients. Many damaged hospitals are referring cases to Al Ahli, which continues to provide critical medical care despite extreme limitations.

• Triage is being conducted in the hospital courtyard, as indoor capacity is stretched.
• All hospital ambulances have been destroyed, leaving Al Ahli reliant on Red Crescent transport.
• Beyond medical care, the hospital is assisting with burials and body management.
• Engineers are assessing infrastructure damage, but repairs remain uncertain.
• Chronic disease cases are worsening, with delayed treatments leading to severe complications, including amputations.
• Al Ahli Hospital is seeing 600 outpatients daily, and 130 inpatients plus additional displaced individuals who are sheltering on-site. 

While the ceasefire has been welcomed as a necessary step to halt the violence, significant challenges remain. Previous ceasefires in the region have often collapsed due to renewed hostilities, and the success of this truce will depend on both sides’ adherence to the agreement and the effectiveness of international mediation efforts.

The long-term goals of the agreement include securing the release of all remaining hostages, establishing a permanent ceasefire, and initiating Gaza’s reconstruction under international supervision. Achieving these objectives will require sustained diplomatic efforts, given the deep-rooted tensions and ongoing political complexities. 

The January 2025 ceasefire between Israel and Hamas represents a significant, albeit fragile, step toward resolving a prolonged and devastating conflict. The agreement’s success hinges on the commitment of both parties to uphold their obligations and the continued support of international mediators in facilitating dialogue and reconstruction efforts.