Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has postponed a cabinet vote on a ceasefire deal with Hamas, claiming Hamas withdrew from certain terms. The agreement, mediated by Egypt, Qatar, and the US, aims for a phased exchange of hostages and humanitarian improvements. Recent Israeli airstrikes continue despite the ceasefire announcement, complicating humanitarian efforts and escalating casualty figures in Gaza.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has announced a delay in the cabinet’s vote on a ceasefire agreement with Hamas, citing that Hamas has backed out of certain terms of the deal. Netanyahu’s statement indicated a ‘last-minute crisis’ with Hamas, leading to the postponement, and his office mentioned that the cabinet will not meet until Hamas revises its stance. The Israeli government attributed Hamas’s withdrawal to a desire for further concessions without specifying details.
Recent mediation from Egypt, Qatar, and the United States had led to an announcement of a ceasefire set to commence on Sunday, aimed at resolving the ongoing conflict in Gaza. This phased agreement is designed to facilitate the exchange of hostages held by Hamas since the October 7, 2023 attacks for numerous Palestinian detainees in Israel. Both Israeli and Palestinian communities have expressed immense relief and joy in response to the news, celebrating in the streets.
Initially scheduled for Thursday, the cabinet vote’s clarity remains uncertain following Netanyahu’s remarks. Israeli President Isaac Herzog has acknowledged the challenges ahead and emphasized the importance of cabinet approval. Meanwhile, Qatari Prime Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani disclosed that Hamas is expected to release 33 captives during the first phase of the agreement, which extends over 42 days, while Israeli military presence is expected to decrease.
The ceasefire arrangement reportedly comprises three interlinked stages, with the first phase focusing on the ceasefire and prisoner exchanges along with the return of deceased individuals. Internally displaced Palestinians are set to return home and humanitarian aid will be significantly increased to support the war-affected areas. Despite the ceasefire discussions, recent Israeli airstrikes have resulted in additional casualties, escalating an already dire humanitarian situation.
The ongoing violence has led to a staggering death toll exceeding 46,700 individuals, with over 110,200 injuries reported amidst the conflict. Previous ceasefire agreements facilitated by Egypt, Qatar, and the US included the release of hostages earlier in November 2023, but 94 captives remain in Gaza, many presumed dead. The subsequent phases of the agreement will focus on the complete resolution of hostilities and plans for Gaza’s reconstruction, with oversight from international organizations.
The Israeli-Hamas conflict has escalated since the surprise attack by Hamas on October 7, 2023, resulting in severe humanitarian crises. The mediation efforts by Egypt, Qatar, and the United States aimed to achieve a ceasefire to alleviate the conflict’s toll on both parties and facilitate a prisoner exchange. This context underscores the complex political dynamics and the differing interests at play in negotiating peace in the region, highlighting the fragility of any agreements reached.
The situation remains tenuous with significant challenges in achieving a lasting ceasefire between Israel and Hamas. Netanyahu’s delay in voting on the ceasefire reflects the ongoing complexities of negotiations. Given the humanitarian crisis and public sentiments on both sides, the outcome of these discussions is critical for future peace efforts and regional stability.
Original Source: www.egypttoday.com
