Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirmed a ceasefire deal with Hamas after extensive negotiations. The security cabinet is set to approve it. Netanyahu announced the cabinet’s vote, a crucial step towards ending the conflict.
A Fragile Agreement: Stages of the Ceasefire
The ceasefire deal includes phased provisions, starting with releasing 33 hostages for Palestinian prisoners. Israeli forces will withdraw from Gaza’s densely populated areas, allowing displaced people to return. The second phase will secure all hostages’ release and further Israeli withdrawal, while the third phase focuses on rebuilding Gaza.
Ongoing Tensions and Strikes Continue in Gaza
Despite the announcement of the ceasefire, the situation on the ground remains tense. Israeli airstrikes have continued in Gaza, with Gaza’s Civil Defence agency reporting over 100 fatalities since the ceasefire deal was first disclosed. Among those killed, many were civilians, including women and children. The strikes persist as both sides wait for the deal to formally take effect. UNICEF has expressed concern about the continued violence, especially given the growing number of casualties and the impact on the region’s children.
Opposition from Israel’s Far-Right Parties
The proposed ceasefire has sparked opposition from some of Israel’s far-right politicians, particularly from figures such as National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir. These leaders have voiced strong objections to the agreement, with Ben-Gvir’s party threatening to withdraw from the coalition government if the deal is approved. There are concerns that agreeing to a ceasefire with Hamas may embolden the militant group, and some far-right factions demand that the Israeli government resume military operations to eliminate Hamas entirely.
Political Implications and Coalition Crisis
The ceasefire deal has the potential to trigger a political crisis within Netanyahu’s coalition government. Hardline ministers have signaled their intent to resign if the deal is ratified. The ongoing pressure from right-wing factions underscores the difficulty Netanyahu faces in balancing the demands of his political allies and international pressure for a resolution. Despite this, the Prime Minister has moved ahead with the approval process, emphasizing the need for a resolution to the ongoing humanitarian disaster in Gaza.
International Responses and Future Uncertainty
International figures, including US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, have welcomed the ceasefire agreement, with expectations that the deal will take effect by Sunday, despite the delays. However, many questions remain about the future of Gaza and the broader Middle East peace process. The deal’s success hinges not only on the ceasefire itself but on the long-term efforts to address the region’s deep-rooted issues. As the situation continues to unfold, the global community remains watchful of the steps Israel and Hamas take next in the aftermath of this agreement.
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