Negotiators from Israel and Hamas announced a cease-fire agreement lasting 42 days, along with a plan for hostage release in Gaza, as confirmed by President Biden and other officials. The cease-fire is set to begin on Sunday, according to the Qatari prime minister. Final details are still being negotiated, and the agreement requires ratification from Israel's cabinet and government.
The cease-fire has raised hopes of ending over a year of conflict that has resulted in significant casualties, particularly among Palestinians. It is estimated that around 100 hostages remain in Gaza, with Israeli authorities believing approximately 35 of them may be deceased.
Hamas acknowledged the cease-fire deal via a statement on Telegram, commending the resilience of Gazans throughout the conflict.
Biden expressed confidence in the agreement's durability, indicating that U.S. hostages would be released in the initial phase. The cease-fire closely resembles a three-phase framework proposed by the U.S. in May.
The first phase of the agreement will last six weeks, during which Israeli forces will withdraw from populated areas, and about 33 hostages are expected to be released over the 42-day period. Biden mentioned that Palestinians would be allowed to return to their homes and receive an influx of humanitarian supplies.
In a separate development, Senator Marco Rubio of Florida, nominated by President-elect Donald Trump for the position of Secretary of State, participated in Senate confirmation hearings. Rubio's hearing coincided with the announcement of the cease-fire agreement. He has previously supported Israel's actions in the conflict and emphasized the need for Ukraine to negotiate peace with Russia, suggesting that both sides may need to make concessions.
Rubio also raised concerns about China's ambitions to surpass the U.S. as the leading global power.
Additionally, Pam Bondi, Trump's nominee for the Justice Department, declined to confirm whether she would resist White House pressure or acknowledge Trump's loss in the 2020 election.
Meanwhile, President Biden delivered his final address to the nation, marking the conclusion of his five-decade political career.
In South Korea, President Yoon Suk Yeol became the first sitting president to be detained during a criminal investigation, concluding a period of political unrest following his impeachment for a brief declaration of martial law. Yoon was taken into custody by investigators backed by 1,000 police officers after a failed attempt last week. Investigators have 48 hours to question him, after which they may formally arrest him, requiring indictment within 20 days. The Constitutional Court is also deliberating on his potential removal from office.
In other news, a recent study has uncovered insights into a matrilocal society among the Celtic Durotriges tribe in ancient England, indicating that women maintained residence in their ancestral homes while men migrated for marriage, adding to the understanding of gender dynamics in prehistoric Europe.