Netanyahu Cites ‘Last-Minute Crisis’ as Gaza Ceasefire Approval Delays/ Newslooks/ WASHINGTON/ J. Mansour/ Morning Edition/ Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu revealed a “last-minute crisis” with Hamas is delaying Israel’s approval of a ceasefire deal aimed at pausing the 15-month war in Gaza. The agreement promises hostage releases, Palestinian prisoner swaps, and a surge in humanitarian aid. Heavy airstrikes continued in Gaza as the situation remains unresolved, with Netanyahu facing domestic political pressures.
Gaza Ceasefire Delayed: Quick Looks
- Hostage-Prisoner Exchange: 33 hostages to be released over six weeks in exchange for Palestinian prisoners.
- Netanyahu’s Concerns: Cited Hamas backtracking on conditions, delaying the Israeli Cabinet’s vote on the deal.
- Intense Bombardment: Israeli airstrikes killed at least 72 people in Gaza since the ceasefire announcement.
- Internal Pressures: Netanyahu’s far-right coalition partners threaten government stability over the truce.
- Humanitarian Crisis: 90% of Gaza’s population displaced, with civilian casualties mounting.
Netanyahu Cites ‘Last-Minute Crisis’ as Gaza Ceasefire Approval Delays
Deep Look:
The Standoff
Netanyahu accused Hamas of reneging on agreed terms regarding prisoner exchanges. This delay follows an earlier announcement by Qatar and President Joe Biden, raising concerns about the deal’s viability.
- Hamas Response: Senior leader Izzat al-Rishq denied the allegations, saying Hamas remains committed to the truce.
- Cabinet Vote: Netanyahu’s government postponed approval, citing unresolved issues with Hamas.
Deal Highlights
The truce aims to provide immediate relief and a path to peace:
- Hostage Release: 33 hostages will be freed in the initial phase.
- Humanitarian Aid: Aid delivery will ramp up to address Gaza’s humanitarian crisis.
- Phased Withdrawal: Israeli troops will retreat from many areas, allowing displaced Palestinians to return.
Domestic Challenges for Netanyahu
The prime minister faces a precarious political landscape:
- Coalition Threats: Far-right leaders like Itamar Ben Gvir oppose concessions, potentially destabilizing Netanyahu’s government.
- Opposition Pressure: Public demands to resolve the hostage crisis and international scrutiny complicate the decision-making process.
Heavy Bombardment Amid Ceasefire Talks
Israeli airstrikes intensified in Gaza, even as truce negotiations progressed.
- Civilian Impact: Gaza’s Health Ministry reported 72 fatalities overnight, with ongoing strikes adding to the toll.
- Historical Pattern: Both sides often escalate attacks before ceasefires to assert dominance.
Unresolved Questions
- Gaza Governance: Post-war leadership and reconstruction responsibilities remain unclear.
- Long-Term Ceasefire: Hamas insists on a full Israeli withdrawal for a lasting peace, while Israel vows to dismantle Hamas militarily.
Broader Implications
The war has destabilized the Middle East, drawing global protests and raising questions about regional security. Mediators, including Egypt, Qatar, and the U.S., continue to push for a sustainable solution.
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