Gaza Ceasefire Deal: What We Know So Far
Written by Spark on 16th January 2025
By Ellie Brown
What Is Happening in Gaza? Explained Step by Step
On Wednesday, January 15, 2025, progress was being made toward a ceasefire agreement after 15 months of conflict between Israel and Hamas. The proposed deal, divided into three stages, has the potential to end the war permanently if negotiations continue successfully. However, tensions remain high, and neither Hamas nor the Israeli government has officially approved the agreement, citing a lack of trust between the parties.

Tulkarm, Palestine, 9th Jan, 2025. Palestinians seen at the destroyed market after the Israeli army stormed the Tulkarm refugee camp in the West Bank: Credit: SOPA Images Limited/Alamy Live News
What Are the Three Stages of the Agreement?
The First Stage
According to U.S. President Joe Biden, the first stage of the ceasefire involves the release of “a number of hostages” held by Hamas in exchange for hundreds of Palestinian prisoners. Hostages prioritised for release include women, the elderly, and the wounded.
Israeli troops would also withdraw from “all” populated areas of Gaza, allowing displaced Palestinians to return to their neighbourhoods. The war has displaced nearly all of Gaza’s 2.3 million residents, and this measure is expected to create significant movement as families attempt to rebuild their lives.
Additionally, the ceasefire would facilitate increased access to humanitarian aid, addressing critical needs in Gaza. President Biden indicated that this initial phase of the ceasefire could extend beyond six weeks if negotiations progress positively.
Details for the second and third stages are expected to be discussed further as the ceasefire takes effect.
The Second Stage
While specifics are still being finalised, the second stage of the agreement is aimed at achieving “a permanent end to the war,” according to President Biden. This phase includes a full withdrawal of Israeli troops from Gaza and the release of more Palestinian prisoners. Unlike the first stage, this phase would involve the release of male hostages.
Reports suggest that Israel has detained around 1,000 Palestinians during the conflict. While most prisoners may be freed, Israeli officials have stated that those convicted of murder will not be released.
The Third Stage
The third and final stage focuses on the reconstruction of Gaza, a region severely damaged during the conflict. Rebuilding bustling neighbourhoods and vital infrastructure will be a complex and time-consuming process.
Discussions regarding funding for reconstruction are yet to be finalized and may be included in future negotiations. This stage also involves the return of the bodies of deceased hostages to their families, allowing them to mourn and find closure.
Reactions from Israel and Hamas
Both sides have commented on the proposed deal. An Israeli government official described the negotiations as showing “real progress,” while a Hamas representative stated they are “satisfied with the status of the negotiations.” Qatar’s foreign ministry, which has played a mediating role, reported no significant issues blocking the agreement.