Transformations in the Middle East: Ceasefire and Political Shifts

After 15 months of war and long negotiations, the leaders of Israel and Hamas have reached a deal to stop fighting in Gaza and to release prisoners and hostages.

Full details haven’t been released, but the first phase of the deal is due to come into effect on Sunday - as long as it’s approved by the Israeli cabinet and government - a decision that’s been delayed. The health ministry in Gaza says dozens of Palestinians have been killed since the announcement of the deal on Wednesday evening.

We explain what we know about the deal and why it’s taken so long to get to this point. We hear from people in Gaza and Israel and a whole host of BBC journalists, including Lyse Doucet, Shaina Oppenheimer and Jeremy Bowen.

This episode was recorded on Thursday 16th January 2025 at 1430GMT.

Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk WhatsApp: +44 0330 12 33 22 6 Presenter: William Lee Adams Producers: Emily Horler and Maria Clara Montoya Editor: Julia Ross-Roy