Ceasefire regime takes effect in Gaza

Israel has announced the introduction of a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip starting at 11:15 (GMT+2).

The ceasefire took effect after Hamas sent a list of three hostages to be released on January 19, Caliber.Az reports, citing foreign media. 

The first phase of the ceasefire was scheduled to begin at 8:30 (GMT+2) on January 19 but was delayed after Hamas sent the list of three female hostages later than expected.

For the past two hours, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have continued striking terrorist targets in the Gaza Strip.

Israel has received the list of three hostages to be freed by Hamas as part of the ceasefire agreement in Gaza. 

Hamas explained the delay by citing technical reasons, along with the complexities of the field situation and ongoing bombing. The group eventually published the names of three Israeli women to be released on January 19. It had previously issued a statement reaffirming its commitment to the ceasefire agreement announced last week.

According to the terms of the ceasefire, Israel is expected to receive 33 hostages from Hamas during 42 days. The hostages include children, female soldiers, as well as civilians and men older 50. In return, Israel will release 50 Palestinians for each female soldier and 30 Palestinians for each civilian.

Following this, Israel will also release all women and minors under the age of 19 who have been detained in the Gaza Strip during nearly a year and a half of military operations. Unarmed Palestinians will be allowed to return to the northern part of the enclave. Furthermore, 600 trucks carrying humanitarian aid will be allowed to enter Gaza daily.

By Naila Huseynova