After two long years of conflict, an end to the Gaza war is finally in sight as a US-brokered deal overcomes its final hurdles. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced the agreement is “90 per cent done,” with only the “logistical piece” left to finalize.
The framework, which has the preliminary consent of Hamas, is centered on a hostage release. All Israeli captives would be freed in exchange for an Israeli military pullback to the “yellow line,” a demarcation from mid-August.
In a move aimed at preventing future conflict, the deal also includes a tentative plan for what comes next. Rubio confirmed Hamas has agreed “in principle and generalities” to participate in discussions about the post-war administration of Gaza.
President Donald Trump has championed the deal, calling it “great for Israel.” He has also put Hamas on notice, warning of “complete obliteration” if the group refuses to cede power, and has confirmed that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu supports the initiative.
As negotiators tackle the last remaining details, a sense of cautious optimism is growing. Rubio stated that the sincerity of Hamas will be revealed “very quickly,” determining whether the prolonged and devastating war will finally conclude.