Lagatar24 Desk
Tel Aviv: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced on Friday that a deal has been finalized to secure the release of hostages held in Gaza. The agreement comes after last-minute hurdles delayed a ceasefire that would pause the 15-month-long war between Israel and Hamas.
Netanyahu stated that the deal will be presented to his security cabinet and government for approval, signaling a significant step toward addressing the war’s humanitarian impact. “The State of Israel is committed to achieving all the goals of the war, including the return of all our hostages – both living and dead,” the Prime Minister’s Office said in a statement.
Key Aspects of the Agreement
•Hostage Exchange: The deal ensures the release of dozens of Israeli hostages held by Hamas in exchange for Palestinian prisoners held in Israeli jails.
•Ceasefire: A temporary halt in hostilities in Gaza, enabling displaced Palestinians to return to their homes.
•Mediator Involvement: The agreement follows mediation efforts by Qatar and U.S. President Joe Biden.
Conflict Timeline
The war began on October 7, 2023, after Hamas militants infiltrated Israel, killing over 1,200 citizens and taking hundreds hostage. Israeli retaliation has resulted in over 46,000 Palestinian deaths, according to reports. The ongoing violence has displaced hundreds of thousands of Palestinians and devastated Gaza’s infrastructure.
Challenges to Implementation
Netanyahu’s coalition government faces internal resistance to the ceasefire. Hardline national security minister Itamar Ben-Gvir threatened to resign if the ceasefire is approved, highlighting divisions within the government. Additionally, Hamas accused Israel of delaying the deal by making demands regarding the Philadelphi corridor, a strategic border area with Egypt.
Israeli airstrikes have continued, killing at least 72 people in Gaza on Thursday, even as the agreement nears finalization.
Humanitarian Concerns
The ceasefire offers a glimmer of hope for displaced Palestinians and hostages’ families. However, the humanitarian crisis in Gaza remains dire, with widespread destruction and limited access to essential services.
