Palestinians in Deir al-Balah, central Gaza, celebrate the announcement of a ceasefire deal between the Palestinian Resistance and the Zionist occupation in January 15, 2025. Photo: AP.
The Palestinian Islamic Resistance Movement, Hamas, has announced a ceasefire agreement, bringing an end to more than 15 months of relentless aggression on the Gaza Strip. The movement hailed the agreement as a victory for the Palestinian people and their steadfast resistance in the face of unprecedented challenges. Hamas described the ceasefire as the fruit of the “legendary resilience” demonstrated by the people of Gaza and their courageous resistance against the Zionist occupation. It emphasized that the agreement represents a critical milestone in the ongoing struggle for liberation and the right of return for Palestinians.
In a statement, Hamas underscored the humanitarian urgency of the agreement, stating it was driven by a deep sense of responsibility toward the people of Gaza. The movement expressed hope that the deal would halt Zionist aggression, end the bloodshed, and stop the massacres and genocidal policies that the population has endured. Special recognition was given to mediators, specifically Qatar and Egypt, for their pivotal roles in facilitating the agreement and ensuring its success.
Khalil al-Hayya, Hamas’ leader in the Gaza Strip, praised the efforts of the Palestinian people, reflecting on their steadfastness and the significant regional and international support in the ongoing struggle for liberation. “In this historic moment, we express our pride and honor for our people in Gaza,” said al-Hayya. He paid tribute to the sacrifices of those who lost their lives, stating, “We salute the convoys of martyrs from all factions who fell in the battle to defend al-Quds and al-Aqsa.” Al-Hayya emphasized the transformative nature of the recent conflict, noting, “The al-Aqsa Flood operation marked a critical turning point in our cause, and its effects will not end with the battle’s conclusion.”
Reflecting on the events of October 7, he declared, “What the al-Qassam Brigades accomplished struck the enemy’s entity fatally, and this will remain etched in history.” He added a stern warning to those responsible for aggression against Palestinians: “Our people will not forget those who participated in the genocide. We will neither forget nor forgive.” Al-Hayya commended the strength and determination of Palestinian fighters, saying, “Our fighters carried out operations against the enemy with unparalleled will and strength. The enemy will never see a moment of weakness from us.”
Highlighting regional solidarity, al-Hayya praised Lebanon’s sacrifices, noting, “The Lebanese people have made great sacrifices and shown immense patience in defending and supporting our Palestinian cause […] Hezbollah has offered hundreds of martyrs, including its leaders and fighters, led by the honorable Secretary-General Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah, on the path to al-Quds.” He also expressed gratitude to Ansar Allah in Yemen, calling them “brothers in truth who overcame geographical distance and changed the equation of war and the region.”
Addressing international support, al-Hayya thanked Iran for its contributions, stating, “We thank the Islamic Republic of Iran, which supported our resistance and people, engaged in the battle, and struck at the heart of the enemy.” He also lauded the Iraqi resistance, which he said, “broke all barriers to support Palestine and its resistance.” Al-Hayya extended gratitude to Palestinians in the West Bank and the Occupied Territories, saying, “We thank our people and the revolutionary youth in the West Bank, especially in the heroic Jenin camp, al-Quds, and the Occupied Interior.” He recognized the solidarity of nations such as Turkey, South Africa, Algeria, Russia, China, Malaysia, Indonesia, Belgium, Spain, and Ireland, praising their honorable positions.
Qatari Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani held a press conference to announce the successful efforts to broker a ceasefire agreement, which was reported on by Al Mayadeen as follows. During the press briefing, Al Thani confirmed that both Palestinian and “Israeli” parties had agreed to the terms of the ceasefire, which is set to be implemented on Sunday, January 19. The Qatari leader emphasized that work is ongoing with both the “Israeli” occupation and the Palestinian Islamic Resistance to ensure the smooth execution of the agreement’s steps. He also disclosed that the ceasefire would be carried out in phases, with further details of the second and third stages to be announced following the completion of the first phase.
Under the agreement, Hamas is set to release 33 captives in exchange for the release of Palestinian prisoners. Al Thani highlighted Qatar’s role in facilitating the negotiations, praising the increased cooperation from both the current and incoming US administrations in achieving the ceasefire deal. Al Mayadeen has obtained details of the Gaza ceasefire agreement with the Zionist occupation. The agreement, which outlines an eleven-clause framework, marks a significant step toward resolving the ongoing war and addressing the humanitarian crisis in the region.
Key terms of the agreement include:
– “Israeli” forces are required to fully withdraw from all areas of the Gaza Strip and return to the pre-war borders.
– The Rafah crossing must be reopened, with “Israeli” forces withdrawing entirely from the area.
– “Israel” is mandated to ease the travel of injured individuals for treatment abroad.
– “Israel” must permit the daily entry of 600 aid trucks, as per a humanitarian protocol backed by Qatar.
– “Israel” must facilitate the entry of 200,000 tents and 60,000 caravans for immediate shelter.
– A large-scale prisoner exchange will occur, including the release of 1,000 prisoners from Gaza and hundreds of detainees serving lengthy sentences.
– “Israel” is to release all women and children under the age of 19 from its prisons.
– “Israeli” forces must gradually withdraw from the Netzarim and Philadelphi Corridors.
– Displaced residents must be allowed to return to their homes, with guaranteed freedom of movement throughout the Gaza Strip.
– Hostile aircraft must vacate Gaza’s airspace for 8 to 10 hours daily.
– All hospitals in Gaza must be rehabilitated. Field hospitals, medical equipment, and surgical teams must be permitted entry.
Khalil Al-Hayya concluded with a reaffirmation of the Palestinian struggle’s ultimate goal: “al-Quds and al-Aqsa will remain our compass and the symbol of our jihad and resistance until liberation, and the establishment of an independent state.” He emphasized that the ceasefire agreement is an achievement for the Palestinian people, their resistance, and the free people of the world, marking a pivotal milestone in the struggle against the enemy and paving the way toward achieving the goals of liberation and return.
The agreement stems from responsibility towards the steadfast and patient people in Gaza, aiming to stop the Zionist aggression, end the bloodshed, and put a halt to the massacres and genocidal war they have endured. Hamas expressed gratitude and appreciation for all the honorable official and popular stances that stood in solidarity with Gaza, supported the Palestinian people, exposed the occupation’s crimes, and worked to end the aggression at the Arab, Islamic, and international levels.
In summary, the ceasefire agreement represents a significant development in the ongoing conflict, driven by the resilience of the Palestinian people and supported by regional and international allies. The successful negotiations facilitated by Qatar and Egypt highlight the importance of diplomatic efforts in addressing humanitarian crises and fostering peace in the region.
