Israeli Cabinet Moves to Finalize Gaza Cease-Fire Agreement

The Israeli security cabinet is set to vote on a cease-fire agreement with Hamas, amid heightened tensions and opposition from hardliners. If approved, the cease-fire could commence this Sunday, with provisions for the release of hostages and prisoners on both sides.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is urging the security cabinet to approve a critical cease-fire agreement with Hamas during a session that began on Friday. This deal, aimed at potentially ending 15 months of conflict, faces scrutiny due to last-minute disputes and internal disagreements within Netanyahu’s governing coalition.

The agreement has garnered attention as it includes significant measures from both sides, such as a six-week truce and the release of hostages held by Hamas. According to Netanyahu's office, the deal could go into effect as soon as Sunday, provided it receives the majority consent from Israeli ministers. Following the preliminary approval, a larger cabinet discussion will follow.

U.S. Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken has expressed confidence that the agreement will materialize amicably. International mediation has played a crucial role, with Qatar and Egypt facilitating discussions between the opposing parties. The proposed terms involve a partial withdrawal of Israeli military forces and the release of around 33 hostages, predominately women and older individuals, in exchange for the liberation of hundreds of Palestinian prisoners.

Despite optimism surrounding the cease-fire, tensions remain high. Itamar Ben-Gvir, Israel's national security minister, has threatened to resign should the cabinet accept the deal, arguing it would allow Hamas to maintain power in Gaza. Opposition leaders have indicated support for the agreement should Ben-Gvir's party withdraw from the coalition.

In a related context, President Biden defended his unwavering support for Israel in his final statements while in office. He highlighted efforts to curtail Palestinian civilian casualties amid the ongoing conflicts, indicating that political pressure on Netanyahu has complicated diplomatic efforts.

On the ground in Tel Aviv, families of hostages held in Gaza have been vocal in supporting the deal, emphasizing the need for its full execution to ensure their relatives' safe return. Additionally, hundreds of aid trucks from Egypt are prepared to deliver humanitarian assistance, contingent on the cease-fire's implementation.

Demonstrations have erupted in various locations, including Jerusalem, where far-right protestors have clashed with police, opposing the proposed cease-fire. They argue that the deal compromises Israel's resolve in effectively addressing the threats posed by Hamas.

As developments unfold, the eyes of both political leaders and the international community remain fixed on the outcome of the security cabinet's vote, with hopes that this agreement might pave the way for a more sustainable resolution to the ongoing violence in Gaza.