 |
| Hamas and Israel Conflicts |
In a breakthrough for the Middle East, Hamas and Israel have reached a tentative ceasefire agreement, bringing a temporary pause to the ongoing Gaza conflict. This comes after weeks of intense negotiations and mounting international pressure. The deal, awaiting final approval from Israel’s security cabinet, is set to take effect this Sunday.
Celebrations Amid Uncertainty
The streets of Tel Aviv and Gaza witnessed mixed emotions as thousands gathered to celebrate the announcement. Joy and relief swept through Gaza, with residents expressing hope for a brighter future.
“We are very happy about the agreement. It gives us hope for Gaza’s future,” said a local resident. However, the euphoria is tempered with apprehension.
Israel’s security cabinet, initially scheduled to approve the deal earlier today, postponed its meeting, citing incomplete preparations by the Israeli delegation. Accusations of potential backtracking by Hamas have further fueled uncertainties.
“We are still afraid of being disappointed,” said another Gaza resident. “We are concerned that Israel may change its stance and fabricate excuses to break the agreement.”
The Ceasefire Terms
The agreement is structured in three phases, with the initial stage spanning 42 days. During this period:
- Hamas is to release three hostages.
- Israeli forces will withdraw from crowded areas in Gaza.
Despite the optimism, both sides remain cautious about the agreement’s durability.
Political Divisions in Israel
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu faces significant domestic pressure. While the deal has been praised by Israel’s President as a step toward peace, members of Netanyahu’s coalition, including far-right ministers, have voiced opposition.
Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich called the agreement “a bad and dangerous deal,” while National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir described it as “disastrous.” Nevertheless, Netanyahu’s government seems determined to proceed, acknowledging the challenges ahead.
Global Reactions
The ceasefire has garnered widespread international support. Countries including India, China, Australia, and Italy have welcomed the deal, urging both sides to uphold its conditions. France has called for adherence to the agreement, while nations like Egypt and Jordan have pledged to increase aid to Gaza.
Iran and Yemen have hailed the ceasefire as a victory for the Palestinian cause and a success for the Arab resistance. Meanwhile, U.S. President Joe Biden and President-elect Donald Trump have both expressed their commitment to supporting peace efforts. Trump emphasized leveraging this momentum to expand the Abraham Accords, normalizing relations between Israel and Arab nations.
Challenges Ahead
Despite the agreement, tensions remain high. Gaza’s Health Ministry reported 81 deaths in Israeli airstrikes over the past 24 hours, many occurring after the ceasefire was announced.
Experts warn that the ceasefire might only serve as a temporary pause in the longstanding conflict. “This is just another small break in the Hamas-Israel war, which will most likely continue at some point,” said Joim Confino, a correspondent and author on Israeli politics.
As the world watches closely, the durability of the ceasefire remains uncertain, leaving both Israelis and Palestinians bracing for what lies ahead.
