THE LEGAL AND POLITICAL VALUE OF THE HAMAS-ISRAEL AGREEMENT DATED JANUARY 15, 2025 WITHIN THE FRAMEWORK OF CEASE-FIRE, HOSTAGE, FORCED DISPLACEMENT

Abstract

This research article has tried to comprehensively analyze the January 15, 2025 Hamas-Israel Ceasefire Agreement from the perspective of international law. Signed in the aftermath of the post-2023 escalation of hostilities in the Gaza Strip, the Agreement includes not only a temporary cessation of hostilities, which is of course a priority, but also critical issues regarding the delivery of humanitarian aid, the release of hostages, prisoner swaps and the forced displacement of civilians. In this framework, this study analyzes the legal nature of the ceasefire, its binding nature and the obligations of the parties in light of international humanitarian law, the Geneva Conventions and 1977 Additional Protocols, the United Nations Charter, Security Council resolutions and International Court of Justice decisions. The legitimacy of hostage and prisoner exchanges on the basis of the law of treaties and customary international law as well as the nature of forced displacement practices against civilians within the scope of war crimes are analyzed in detail. The Study, in addition, assessed the international status of Palestine, Israel's security policies and the impacts of the agreement on the regional balance of power, while also examining the legal responsibilities of international organizations and the third-party states. As a result of the researching, the study tried to reveal the necessity of a comprehensive legal framework for sustainable peace by emphasizing that the ceasefire is not only a political tool but also a mechanism that produces serious legal consequences.