What are the main terms of the current ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas?

The ceasefire agreement involves a hostages-and-prisoners exchange, with Hamas releasing Israeli hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners. It includes a phased withdrawal of Israeli forces, humanitarian aid, and a potential permanent ceasefire in later stages.

Why are negotiations for extending the ceasefire or achieving a permanent peace stalled?

Negotiations are stalled due to political divisions within both sides. Israel's government faces internal pressure to resume military actions, while Hamas seeks a complete end to the war without compromising its position in Gaza.

How has the humanitarian situation in Gaza evolved since the ceasefire began?

The humanitarian situation remains critical, with reports of infant deaths due to hypothermia and ongoing restrictions on aid delivery. Despite some humanitarian aid entering Gaza, many needs remain unmet.

What role have external actors played in mediating the ceasefire and potential peace talks?

External actors like the United States, Egypt, and Qatar have played a crucial role in mediating the ceasefire. The U.S., in particular, has been involved in pressuring both sides to accept the deal.

9 sources·World

Ceasefire in Gaza on the Brink as Tensions Rise Between Israel and Hamas

Tensions escalate as the ceasefire nears its end, with both sides at a critical impasse amid growing humanitarian crises and political pressure.

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Israel has said the operation — called Iron Wall — is designed to stamp out militancy, but Palestinians fear its real intention is a permanent displacement of the territory's population and possible annexation.
Israeli tanks enter Jenin in occupied West Bank as military operation displaces more than 40,000 Palestinians
CBS News·22d
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Center
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Israel remains committed to its war objectives, which include not only the release of the hostages but also the elimination of Hamas’s military and governing capabilities and ensuring Gaza no longer poses a threat to Israel.
Witkoff Heading to Middle East to Push Negotiations
Epoch Times·22d
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Right
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The Gaza ceasefire looks increasingly like it may end up being a fleeting interlude.
Analysis: As clock ticks down on the Gaza ceasefire, Israel prepares for more war
CNN·22d
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Leans Left
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With no homes left, no functioning government and no guarantee that war won’t erupt again, some Gazans are daring to voice their support for Trump’s proposal, which would allow them to relocate to other countries, including Egypt and Jordan, at least for the decade-long rebuilding process estimated by U.S. officials.
Trapped in Gaza: Residents speak out as Egypt blocks exit, rejects Trump’s relocation plan
FOX News·22d
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Other freed captives have recounted through their families being starved, chained and abused.
Freed Israeli hostage held onto faith to get through months of captivity in Gaza
Associated Press·22d
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Center
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The first phase of the ceasefire has yet to be completed and has only deepened the bitter mistrust on both sides.
The fragile ceasefire in Gaza faces a key deadline. Will it last?
Boston Herald·22d
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Hamas’s hostage propaganda is blunt and transparently self-serving.
Hamas’s Theater of the Macabre
The Atlantic·22d
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Leans Left
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Feb 25th, 2025, 12:58 PM ET

Summary

A summary of the key points of this story verified across multiple sources.

Increasing tensions in Gaza as the current ceasefire between Hamas and Israel nears its 42-day expiration, prompting fears of renewed conflict. Reports of infant deaths due to hypothermia add to the humanitarian crisis. Negotiations to extend the truce or initiate permanent talks for peace remain stalled. Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu faces pressure to resume military actions, buoyed by support from far-right cabinet members and the return of US President Trump. With hostages caught in the middle, the future remains uncertain as humanitarian needs grow alongside political complexities.

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Hamas claims that Israel's delay in releasing Palestinian prisoners violates the ceasefire agreement and jeopardizes ongoing negotiations for a second phase, possibly leading to a resumption of hostilities.
The humanitarian situation in Gaza remains dire, with several infants reported to have died from hypothermia due to inadequate shelter, highlighting the urgent need for aid and reconstruction efforts as the ceasefire persists.
Freed hostages recount their experiences of captivity, expressing how faith played a crucial role in their survival, while also shedding light on the conditions faced by those still held.

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