Israel and Hamas agree ceasefire, but deal delayed – 16 January 2025
Israel and Hamas have finally agreed on a ceasefire deal after 15 months of war.
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Most buildings in Gaza have been destroyed in the war
It will see a pause in fighting in Gaza and the release of hostages still being held by Hamas, the group that controls Gaza.
However, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu says he will not sign the agreement yet, due to Hamas making last-minute changes to the deal.
The devastating war started when Hamas launched a surprise attack on Israel on 7 October 2023, killing 1,200 people and taking 251 hostages. Since the war began, more than 46,000 people in Gaza have lost their lives.
Hamas is classed as a terrorist group by the UK, US and many other countries.
The first phase of the deal will see the release of 33 hostages currently being held in Gaza, including all women, children and men over the age of 50.
Although details are still to be finalised, the deal has been celebrated by many in both countries, although there have been demonstrations by some in Israel who have seen it as caving in to Hamas. If the deal is signed today as expected, the ceasefire will begin this Sunday.
