Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced on Thursday that a 'last minute crisis' with Hamas was hindering Israeli approval of a long-awaited agreement to pause the fighting in the Gaza Strip and release dozens of hostages. Israeli airstrikes have resulted in the deaths of dozens of individuals across the war-torn territory.
Netanyahu's office stated that the Cabinet will not convene to approve the agreement until Hamas resolves the crisis, alleging that Hamas has reneged on parts of the agreement in an attempt to secure further concessions.
A senior Hamas official, Izzat al-Rashq, affirmed the group's commitment to the ceasefire agreement mediated by the United States President Joe Biden and Qatar. The deal aims to release scores of hostages held in Gaza and de-escalate a 15-month conflict that has caused turmoil in the Middle East and sparked global protests.
Israeli forces have intensified strikes across Gaza, resulting in the deaths of at least 48 individuals, including women and children, according to the territory's Health Ministry. The toll is expected to rise as hospitals update their records.
Phased Withdrawal and Hostage Release
The conflict began when Hamas-led militants launched a surprise attack on Israel on October 7, 2023, resulting in casualties and abductions. The agreement reached on Wednesday entails the release of 33 hostages over the next six weeks in exchange for hundreds of Palestinians imprisoned by Israel. The deal also includes Israeli forces pulling back from various areas, allowing displaced Palestinians to return to their homes, and an increase in humanitarian aid.
However, the release of the remaining hostages, including male soldiers, is contingent on a lasting ceasefire and a full Israeli withdrawal, a condition set by Hamas. Israel, on the other hand, has vowed to continue fighting until Hamas is dismantled and to maintain security control over the territory.
International Mediation and Postwar Challenges
Mediators from Egypt, Qatar, and the U.S. are set to meet in Cairo to discuss the implementation of the agreement. The war has raised questions about the governance of Gaza post-conflict and the reconstruction efforts needed to address the widespread destruction and displacement.
Israel has faced international criticism, including allegations of civilian casualties and war crimes. The International Court of Justice and the International Criminal Court are investigating claims against Israel and Hamas for their actions during the conflict.
Hamas, a militant group opposed to Israel's existence, has faced significant pressure from Israeli military operations but continues to pose a challenge, potentially leading to a prolonged insurgency if the conflict persists.
For more updates on the Israel-Hamas war, visit AP's war coverage.
