Nakiwala Barbra
Israel’s cabinet is set to approve a ceasefire and hostage release deal with Hamas in Gaza, aiming to end 15 months of conflict.
The initial six-week truce is expected to commence on Sunday. Many Palestinians and families of Israeli hostages have welcomed the news; however, hostilities continue for now.
Following the announcement of the deal, Gaza’s civil defense agency reported that at least 20 Palestinians were killed in ongoing fighting. The conflict began on October 7, 2023, when Hamas attacked southern Israel, resulting in approximately 1,200 deaths and 251 hostages taken to Gaza. Israel’s subsequent offensive has led to over 46,000 Palestinian deaths, according to the Hamas-run health ministry.
The ceasefire agreement includes a phased plan for the release of hostages and Palestinian prisoners. In the first stage, 33 Israeli hostages are to be released in exchange for dozens of Palestinian prisoners held in Israeli jails. The truce will also facilitate increased humanitarian aid to Gaza and the return of displaced Palestinians to their homes.
Despite the agreement, there are unresolved issues. It remains unclear whether the war is conclusively over, as Israel has aimed to dismantle Hamas’s military and governing capabilities. Additionally, uncertainties persist regarding the status of all hostages and the specifics of Israel’s military presence in Gaza.
The deal has been influenced by the impending transition from President Biden to President-elect Donald Trump, with both leaders claiming credit for the agreement. The collaboration between the outgoing and incoming administrations has been pivotal in reaching this outcome.
As the ceasefire’s implementation approaches, the international community remains watchful, hopeful for a lasting peace but aware of the challenges that lie ahead in stabilizing the region and ensuring the agreement’s success.
