Netanyahu’s office issued a statement accusing Hamas of creating a “last-minute crisis” to extract additional concessions. “Hamas is attempting to extort last-minute terms not previously agreed upon,” the statement read, although it did not elaborate on specific demands. Israeli Cabinet, which had been poised to ratify the agreement, has postponed its decision until further clarity emerges.
Accusations followed earlier optimism from U.S. President Joe Biden, who, alongside Vice President Kamala Harris and Secretary of State Antony Blinken, announced the agreement’s framework during a press conference. Biden outlined a three-phase plan, with the first phase spanning six weeks. This phase includes a full ceasefire, withdrawal of Israeli forces from populated areas in Gaza, and release of hostages, including Americans.
Terms of Deal
initial phase is expected to see 33 hostages released by Hamas in exchange for hundreds of Palestinian prisoners held by Israel. Additionally, the agreement includes measures allowing displaced Palestinians to return to their homes and facilitating the delivery of much-needed humanitarian assistance to war-torn regions.
However, Netanyahu’s office expressed concerns over Hamas backtracking on a critical understanding that allowed Israel a veto over the release of prisoners convicted of severe crimes.
International Mediation Efforts
ceasefire deal, brokered by mediators from Egypt, Qatar, and the United States, has been months in making. Despite numerous setbacks, mediators persist in our efforts to implement an agreement, with a follow-up meeting scheduled in Cairo. U.S. officials, including representatives from President-elect Donald Trump’s team, have also played a significant role in securing agreement.
Hamas, meanwhile, has reaffirmed its commitment to a ceasefire. Senior Hamas official Izzat al-Rishq stated, “group remains steadfast in its adherence to terms outlined by mediators.”
Challenges to Implementation
While agreement represents a critical diplomatic achievement, significant hurdles remain. Hamas has declared that it will not release additional captives without a long-term ceasefire and a complete withdrawal of Israeli forces. On or hand, Netanyahu’s far-right coalition partners are pressuring him to avoid concessions and view it as compromising national security. Political tensions could lead to fractures within Netanyahu’s government and potentially trigger early elections.
Humanitarian Toll
Despite ceasefire talks, violence has persisted. Overnight airstrikes by Israeli forces reportedly killed 48 Palestinians in Gaza, including women and children. Gaza’s Health Ministry indicated that the death toll could rise as hospitals update their records. Since the start of the conflict, over 46,000 Palestinians, primarily women, and children, have lost their lives, according to ministry figures. Israel claims to have killed over 17,000 militants but has yet to provide evidence to support the numbers.
United Nations estimates that 90% of Gaza’s 2.3 million residents have been displaced, with entire neighborhoods reduced to rubble. Devastation underscores the urgent need for a sustainable conflict resolution.
Global Reaction
ceasefire announcement has sparked international attention, with citizens in cities like Paris gearing up to celebrate the potential end to hostilities. However, skepticism remains over where agreement can withstand mounting tensions and longstanding grievances between the two sides.
Path Forward
the first phase of the agreement is set to begin once both parties reaffirm our commitments. Mediators and global stakeholders continue to push for de-escalation, but the road ahead remains fraught with challenges.
As the world watches, the fragile ceasefire agreement holds the promise of bringing relief to millions of war-weary civilians in Gaza. However, its success hinges on both Israel and Hamas navigating their deep-seated mistrust and prioritizing peace over politics.
