January 19, 2025: The long-awaited ceasefire in Gaza took effect after the Iran-backed militant group Hamas released the names of three Israeli hostages it intends to free as part of the agreement. The hostages, Romi Gonen, Emily Damari, and Doron Steinbrecher, are set to be released on Sunday, clearing the path for a temporary halt to the violence.

The truce, initially delayed by several hours, began at 11:15 local time (9:15 GMT), marking the start of a 42-day ceasefire phase. The delay had been linked to Israel's demand for a list of the 33 Israeli hostages Hamas had pledged to release. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office confirmed the ceasefire's commencement, stating, "Pursuant to the framework for the release of the hostages, the ceasefire of the first stage in Gaza will take effect at 11:15."

Earlier on the same day, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) had continued their operations in Gaza, striking targets related to terrorist activities, but held back from a full ceasefire until Hamas provided the list of hostages. Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari, a military spokesperson, emphasized that the truce would only take place once Hamas shared the names of the individuals to be released, a stance reiterated by Prime Minister Netanyahu.

As part of the agreement, 33 of the 98 remaining Israeli hostages held by Hamas are expected to be freed during the ceasefire. The mediation for this arrangement has been facilitated by Qatar. In exchange, Israel has agreed to release approximately 2,000 Palestinians currently imprisoned across its facilities.

The global community watches closely as this ceasefire represents a step towards alleviating the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, while questions remain about the long-term impact of the truce on the region’s stability.