Nyack bring them home solidarity gathering at Hezekiah Easter, Veterans Memorial Park in Nyack Nov. 16, 2023, for hostages held by Hamas in Gaza. © Peter Carr/The Journal News / USA TODAY NETWORK
Hostages, Hamas
(Tel Aviv, Israel) – President Joe Biden had confirmed that Israel and Hamas have entered in a ceasefire deal concerning the fighting in Hamas. This marks the first major breakthrough in almost a year, after Biden laid out potential terms in May 2024.
The deal will result in freed hostages and well as humanitarian aid being provided to Gaza. It will happen in stages, beginning on Sunday, January 19. There will be a 42-day ceasefire period to begin with.
Mediators from the Middle Eastern nation of Qatar announced the deal before Biden spoke. Israeli officials believe most of the hostages set to be released are alive. Negotiators say a breakthrough took place overnight Monday into Tuesday. Envoys with both the Biden-Harris White House and President-elect Donald Trump have been active in the talks.
