Israel and Hamas just struck a ‘phase one’ deal to return hostages. Is the end of the war near? (Atlantic Council)

The first piece is in place. On Wednesday, Israel and Hamas agreed on the initial phase of a long-awaited peace plan after intense negotiations in Egypt. In this stage, according to reports, Hamas will return the twenty remaining living hostages that it is holding, while Israel will begin to pull back its forces in the Gaza Strip. What does this deal mean for each side and the region? What steps must follow to end the war that began just over two years ago when Hamas attacked Israel?

Israel and Hamas just struck a ‘phase one’ deal to return hostages. Is the end of the war near? – Atlantic Council