Guarantees and Deals: What Hamas Says It Gained from the Ceasefire

After months of relentless conflict, the recently announced Gaza ceasefire has shifted global attention to what the terms truly mean for both sides. While the truce has brought cautious optimism to a region exhausted by violence, it has also sparked debate about what Hamas actually gained from the agreement. Officials from the group have shared statements suggesting that they secured crucial guarantees from mediators and the United States, marking what they see as a diplomatic victory after an intense military struggle.

The Background of the Ceasefire

The ceasefire was finalized after several weeks of high-level negotiations led by Qatar, Egypt, and the United States. Pressure from the international community intensified as the humanitarian situation in Gaza worsened. Entire neighborhoods were flattened, infrastructure was destroyed, and hospitals were operating under impossible conditions. The deal was seen as the only viable path to ease the suffering of civilians and allow the delivery of aid.

For Hamas, the ceasefire was not only about stopping the bombing but also about securing terms that would reshape the political and humanitarian landscape in Gaza. According to senior Hamas officials quoted by Reuters, the group agreed to the ceasefire after receiving assurances that Israel would begin a phased withdrawal of troops, allow unrestricted humanitarian aid, and ease restrictions on fuel and medical supplies entering the enclave.

The Guarantees from Mediators

In public statements, Hamas leaders emphasized that they received written and verbal guarantees from international mediators. These guarantees, they claim, confirm that the war is effectively over and that reconstruction efforts can begin immediately. Qatar and Egypt reportedly played a critical role in obtaining commitments from both Israel and the United States to ensure compliance.

A Hamas representative stated that the guarantees include the reopening of key border crossings, especially Rafah and Kerem Shalom, under international supervision. This would allow much-needed food, medicine, and fuel to reach Gaza’s population. Additionally, there are reports that the agreement includes a timeline for the release of Palestinian prisoners held in Israeli jails in exchange for hostages captured during the conflict.

While Israel has not confirmed all these details, several international sources have corroborated parts of Hamas’s claims, suggesting that both sides were under significant diplomatic pressure to compromise.

A Political Win for Hamas

From Hamas’s perspective, the ceasefire is not just a humanitarian pause but a political statement. By framing it as a victory, the group aims to show that its resistance strategy forced international actors to acknowledge its demands.

The guarantees from the United States and regional mediators serve as a recognition of Hamas’s position as a negotiating force in Gaza. Politically, this strengthens the group’s image among supporters who view it as standing firm under military and economic pressure. The ceasefire has also given Hamas an opportunity to present itself as the protector of Gaza’s civilians, positioning its leadership as pragmatic and capable of securing real results through negotiation.

The Role of International Pressure

The shift in tone among global powers played a key role in reaching this agreement. After months of airstrikes, civilian casualties, and mounting international criticism, the United States faced growing pressure to help broker a lasting truce.

Hamas leaders claim that U.S. involvement helped ensure that Israel would comply with the terms. This, according to the group, was one of their major achievements. They see the involvement of Washington not as interference but as an acknowledgment that the conflict cannot be resolved without addressing Palestinian demands for autonomy, reconstruction, and access to basic necessities.

Humanitarian organizations have also welcomed the ceasefire but remain cautious. The United Nations and Red Cross have both emphasized that the next few weeks will determine whether the guarantees hold. If aid deliveries proceed smoothly and displaced civilians can return to safer areas, it would signal that at least part of the agreement is working.

Reactions Across the Region

In Gaza, the mood is mixed. Many civilians welcome the ceasefire simply because it allows a temporary end to the suffering. However, there is also skepticism about how long the calm will last. Some residents have voiced concerns that political declarations of victory mean little if living conditions do not improve.

Across the Arab world, governments have praised the mediators for achieving what seemed impossible only a few weeks ago. Egypt and Qatar in particular have received diplomatic recognition for their efforts in securing the deal. Regional analysts believe their involvement may redefine their influence in future Middle East negotiations.

Looking Ahead

Whether Hamas’s claimed guarantees will lead to lasting change remains uncertain. Historically, ceasefires in Gaza have been fragile and short-lived. For this one to succeed, both parties must adhere to the agreed conditions, and international mediators must ensure transparency and accountability.

If reconstruction efforts move forward and restrictions on goods and movement are genuinely lifted, Hamas could consolidate its position domestically and regionally. However, if violations occur or promises are delayed, public frustration could quickly return, eroding any perceived gains.

For now, the ceasefire marks a moment of cautious relief in Gaza. What Hamas describes as guarantees may be the foundation for rebuilding, but their true value will only be proven in the weeks and months ahead. The people of Gaza have endured too much to accept symbolic victories; what they need now is sustained peace, stability, and hope that this agreement will finally lead to a better future.