How did we come to the Israel-Hamas truce in Gaza?

**Israel and Hamas Agree to Ceasefire in Gaza**

After 15 months of fighting, Israel has agreed to a ceasefire with Hamas in Gaza. The agreement was reached on January 19, 2025.

**Background**

The current conflict began on October 7, 2023, when hundreds of Hamas militants stormed Israel’s southern border. They killed about 1,200 people and took more than 250 hostages to Gaza. Israel responded with a military offensive, which included air assaults and a full-scale ground invasion.

**Key Events**

* October 7: Hamas launches an attack on southern Israel, killing around 1,200 people and taking 251 hostages.
* October: Israel launches a ground assault on Gaza, leading to the deaths of over 46,700 people, mostly civilians.
* June 10: The United Nations Security Council adopts a resolution in support of the ceasefire plan.
* July 31: Talks are suspended after Israel assassinates Hamas’ political leader.
* November 9: Qatar suspends efforts as a mediator, citing a lack of progress from both sides.
* November 27: Israel and Lebanon agree to a ceasefire to end a separate conflict.

**The Deal**

Qatar’s Prime Minister announced that Israel and Hamas have agreed to a Gaza ceasefire deal and hostage release. The agreement will take effect on January 19. US President Biden said the deal will “halt the fighting and provide much-needed humanitarian assistance” to Palestinian civilians, and reunite hostages with their family members.