Israel and Hamas reach ceasefire deal: Key moments of the 15 months of devastating conflict

This agreement opens the possibility of bringing an end to the 15-month conflict.

The Israel-Hamas conflict, which began on October 7, 2023, has seen devastating loss of life, escalating tensions, and widespread destruction. The war has been marked by significant military operations, humanitarian crises, and international interventions, culminating in a recent ceasefire deal aimed at halting the violence and facilitating an exchange of hostages. Below are some of the key moments from the ongoing conflict that has deeply affected Gaza, Israel, and the wider Middle East.

Key Moments in the Israel-Hamas Conflict:

October 2023: Escalation and Initial Strikes

Oct. 7: Hamas-led gunmen attack southern Israel, killing 1,200 Israelis and capturing over 250 hostages. Israel responds with airstrikes on Gaza and imposes a siege.

Oct. 8: Hezbollah in Lebanon launches retaliatory attacks on Israel, expressing solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza, marking the start of sustained hostilities.

Oct. 13: Israel orders residents of Gaza City to move south, displacing over a million people from their homes.

Oct. 19: A U.S. Navy warship intercepts missiles and drones launched by Yemen's Iran-backed Houthi rebels aimed at Israel.

Oct. 21: Humanitarian aid trucks are allowed into Gaza through the Rafah border crossing from Egypt, as supplies of food, water, and fuel run critically low.

Oct. 27: Israel escalates its military campaign with a large-scale ground offensive in Gaza, marking a significant escalation in the conflict.

November 2023: Shifting Tides and Humanitarian Crisis

Nov. 15: Israeli troops enter Gaza's largest hospital, Al Shifa, after a prolonged siege, signaling a new phase of combat.

Nov. 21: Israel and Hamas announce a seven-day truce, during which around half the hostages are released, before fighting resumes on December 1.

December 2023: War Intensifies and International Pressure Mounts

Dec. 4: Israel launches a major ground assault in southern Gaza, pushing into the key city of Khan Younis.

Dec. 2: U.S. President-elect Donald Trump warns of consequences in the Middle East if hostages are not released before his January 20 inauguration.

January 2025: Attempts at Ceasefire and Escalation Continues

Jan. 15: Negotiators reach a deal to halt fighting in Gaza and exchange Israeli hostages for Palestinian prisoners. This agreement opens the possibility of bringing an end to the 15-month conflict.