The conflict between Israel and the Gaza-based terror group Hamas had been escalating in recent weeks, resulting in weeks of rocket fire and air strikes in the region. But, after days of Egyptian-brokered mediation, the two sides have agreed to a 4-day cease-fire.
This is a significant development, as it marks the first time such an agreement has been reached in over a year. The ceasefire is accompanied by an agreement to commence talks in Egypt over a possible prisoner swap.
The cease-fire came after Gaza-based militant group Hamas launched more than 400 rockets into Israel in a single day, the highest number since the 2014 war between Israel and Hamas. In response, Israel conducted a massive air campaign against Hamas targets in Gaza, ranging from miltiary bases to a high-rise residential building.
The exchanges between the two sides have been devastating, resulting in over 200 deaths and more than 11,000 reported injuries on the Palestinian side, and 12 Israeli deaths and around 4,000 injuries.
Under the terms of the agreement, both sides must refrain from any military activity and cease any kind of hostilities during the 4 days of the ceasefire. The agreement also states that should either side break the terms of the truce, the other party has the right to unilaterally suspend the ceasefire and resume hostilities.
The 4-day period is intended to be a window of opportunity for both sides to engage in pragmatic discussions over a potential prisoner swap. Prisoner swaps have long been a part of the Middle East conflict, with both sides exchanging prisoners to secure the release of captured persons. There have been numerous attempts at such arrangement in recent years, but none has yet to reach a successful resolution.
It is yet to be seen if the ceasefire and talks will bring about a lasting solution to the conflict. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has said that Israel will press ahead with its air strikes and other military action if the talks fail to produce the desired results. However, the Egyptian-brokered agreement could be the first step towards a lasting cessation of hostilities in the region.