Cessation of hostilities urged by Wadephul: Israeli forces and Hamas to halt combat immediately - Urges for an immediate truce between Israel and Hamas
In October 2023, Hamas captured approximately 50 hostages during a large-scale attack on Israel, initiating a series of events that would unfold over the next two years. Negotiations for a ceasefire, brokered by Qatar and Egypt, were actively underway, with Hamas agreeing to release half of the hostages (around 25) in exchange for a 60-day ceasefire and humanitarian aid access.
However, Israel has demanded a full release of all hostages before agreeing to ceasefire terms and has continued its military operations in the Gaza Strip. Despite protracted negotiations, Israel has shown willingness at times to accept partial releases of hostages, but has remained firm on military objectives.
As of mid-2024, some hostages had been released or rescued—about 140 out of 250 total taken—but calls from Israeli civilians and families demanded the full release of all hostages and an urgent ceasefire. Despite Hamas allegedly accepting a ceasefire proposal in 2025, Israel reportedly had not yet responded formally, leading to growing frustration among Israelis and international mediators.
Johann Wadephul, a representative from Germany, continues to express support for Israel's fight against Hamas, emphasizing that it is in everyone's interest if the conflict can be resolved through a peaceful process. The German Federal Government is also calling on the Israeli government to take further measures to alleviate the suffering in the Gaza Strip.
The United Nations and international actors have reiterated that a lasting ceasefire and hostages' release must be part of a comprehensive political agreement addressing the broader Israel-Palestine conflict. As of these reports, a stable ceasefire or full resolution remains elusive.
In summary: - Hamas agreed to release half of its hostages for a 60-day ceasefire in October 2023 negotiations, brokered by Qatar and Egypt. - Israel has demanded full hostage release before agreeing to ceasefire terms and has continued military operations. - Some hostages have been released since, but many remain captive, and ceasefire talks remain stalled with no final agreement implemented as of late 2024 and early 2025. - International mediators continue pushing for ceasefire and humanitarian access amid ongoing conflict.
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