Israel Approves Cease-Fire with Hamas, Initiating Break in Six-Week Conflict
In a significant development, Israel’s Cabinet has given the green light to a temporary cease-fire agreement with the Hamas militant group, marking the first pause in the devastating six-week war. The cease-fire is expected to facilitate the release of approximately 50 hostages currently held in the Gaza Strip.
The approved deal outlines a four-day cease-fire, during which Israel will suspend its military offensive in Gaza, while Hamas commits to freeing a minimum of 50 hostages, with priority given to women and children among the first releases. The Israeli Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, expressed the government’s commitment to bringing all hostages home.
Reports prior to the Cabinet vote suggested additional elements, such as the release of around 150 Palestinian prisoners and increased humanitarian aid to Gaza, though the official statement did not confirm these details. The truce, mediated by the U.S. and Qatar, is set to take effect once approved by all parties, with the exact commencement date remaining unclear.
A senior White House official, speaking anonymously to The Associated Press, indicated that hostage releases would begin approximately 24 hours after all parties endorse the deal. The Qatari government, mediating with Hamas, has yet to provide a formal response.
While Netanyahu asserted that the war against Hamas would resume after the cease-fire expires, the government’s statement revealed a potential extension of the truce for every additional 10 hostages released by Hamas.
The conflict erupted on October 7 when Hamas militants breached the border into Israel, resulting in casualties exceeding 1,200 and the capture of hundreds of hostages. Israel responded with extensive airstrikes and a ground invasion.
According to the Health Ministry in Gaza, over 11,000 Palestinians have been killed during the offensive, with the majority being civilians. The conflict has displaced approximately 1.7 million people, leading to a severe humanitarian crisis with shortages of essential supplies.
The approved cease-fire could face challenges, including potential pressure on Israel to end its offensive without achieving its goals. The return of hostages, particularly women and children, could have emotional resonance in Israel, where families of captives have been actively campaigning for their release.
However, the deal’s structure poses complexities, with potential divisions among families based on the staggered release of hostages. The cease-fire’s impact on Israel’s battle readiness and the broader international response are factors that will unfold as the situation progresses.
As negotiations continue, the world watches closely, hoping for a lasting resolution to the conflict that has left a profound impact on the lives of those in the region.
The Israeli cabinet approves temporary ceasefire deal; undisclosed details hint at the release of 50 captives, with Israel set to free around 140 Palestinian prisoners https://t.co/2ioxcstZ3f pic.twitter.com/ZYdot7NJto
— Al Jazeera English (@AJEnglish) November 22, 2023