Netanyahu Delays Cabinet Vote on Ceasefire, Israeli Strikes Kill 72 Palestinians/ Newslooks/ WASHINGTON/ J. Mansour/ Morning Edition/ Israel delayed a critical Cabinet vote on a Gaza ceasefire deal, citing Hamas’ alleged renegotiation tactics. Overnight Israeli airstrikes killed at least 72 Palestinians, as families in Gaza face ongoing devastation and uncertainty. The deal, set to begin Sunday, hinges on hostage releases and broader ceasefire negotiations.
Gaza Ceasefire Deal Stalls: Quick Looks
- Ceasefire Vote Delayed: Israel postponed a Cabinet vote on a truce with Hamas.
- Death Toll Rises: 72 Palestinians killed in overnight Israeli airstrikes.
- Hostage Exchange Plans: 33 Israeli hostages to be released over six weeks.
- Public Reaction: Israelis divided on the deal; some families oppose concessions.
- Global Mediation: Qatar, Egypt, and Russia praise the progress toward a truce.
- Civilian Impact: Displaced Gazans plead for peace and an end to destruction.
Netanyahu Delays Cabinet Vote on Ceasefire, Israeli Strikes Kill 72 Palestinians
Deep Look
Israel delayed its Cabinet vote on a ceasefire agreement in Gaza Thursday, accusing Hamas of backtracking on elements of the deal to extract additional concessions. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office announced the decision without elaborating on specific accusations against Hamas.
The delay comes as Israeli airstrikes across Gaza intensify, killing at least 72 Palestinians overnight, according to Gaza’s Health Ministry. The strikes reportedly targeted Hamas and Islamic Jihad facilities, including weapons storage and manufacturing sites, though evidence of these claims was not provided. Displaced Gazans, who had begun celebrating the anticipated ceasefire, expressed shock and despair at the delay.
Ceasefire Details and Conditions
The truce, initially set to begin Sunday, involves the release of 33 Israeli hostages held by Hamas over six weeks in exchange for hundreds of Palestinian prisoners. A second phase, focusing on remaining captives, hinges on a lasting ceasefire and broader negotiations. Hamas insists it will not release male soldiers or other hostages until Israel withdraws fully from Gaza and agrees to long-term peace terms.
Civilian Suffering and Reactions
Palestinians in Gaza voiced their frustration and exhaustion over the continued violence. In Deir al-Balah, families displaced by weeks of airstrikes hoped the ceasefire would allow them to return home. “We went to sleep happy. It’s a shame they deprived us of this joy,” said Karam Moeiliq, a displaced resident.
Fayqa Hussein, another displaced resident from Jabaliya, echoed the sentiment: “We want peace. We want to live like everyone else in the world.”
Meanwhile, an Israeli group, the Gvura Forum, staged a protest in Jerusalem against the ceasefire deal. They criticized the potential release of Palestinian prisoners and raised concerns about leaving hostages behind if the agreement falters.
Regional and International Reactions
Global mediators, including Qatar and Egypt, lauded the ceasefire’s progress, despite the delay. Russia also expressed hope that the agreement could stabilize Gaza and pave the way for comprehensive peace talks. Kremlin officials emphasized the importance of humanitarian relief for displaced Gazans and the reunification of families affected by the conflict.
In Syria, Qatar’s prime minister made a landmark visit, signaling renewed regional cooperation. He emphasized the need for rebuilding efforts and international collaboration to reduce tensions in the Middle East.
Continued Violence
Despite ongoing negotiations, violence persists. The Health Ministry in Gaza reported that 72 Palestinians were killed since Wednesday, with the toll expected to rise as more bodies are recovered. Among the casualties was journalist Ahmed al-Shaiyah, killed in an Israeli strike on a food charity in Khan Younis. Families mourning their loved ones decried the unrelenting devastation.
“Instead of celebrating the truce, we received news of his martyrdom,” said Ismail al-Shaiyah, Ahmed’s brother.
Looking Ahead
With mounting civilian casualties and deepening frustration on both sides, the future of the ceasefire remains uncertain. As mediators push for progress, the people of Gaza and Israel await resolution, hoping for an end to the destruction and a return to peace.
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