
The Israeli government postponed a cabinet vote on a ceasefire agreement with Hamas on Thursday, citing last-minute complications, as Gaza officials reported 77 fatalities from overnight Israeli airstrikes.
The ceasefire, brokered by Egypt, Qatar, and the United States, was set to begin Sunday, aiming to halt 15 months of conflict that has devastated Gaza. However, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu attributed the delay to Hamas allegedly reneging on aspects of the agreement.
Hamas official Izzat el-Reshiq denied the accusations, reiterating the group’s commitment to the accord, which involves a phased truce, hostage releases, and humanitarian aid. Negotiations in Doha are ongoing to resolve disputes over prisoner exchanges, according to U.S. officials.
The plan includes a six-week truce, gradual withdrawal of Israeli forces, and the release of over 1,000 Palestinian detainees in exchange for hostages held by Hamas. However, hardline ministers in Netanyahu’s government have voiced opposition, demanding assurances of military action against Hamas after the deal’s initial phase.
In Gaza, humanitarian conditions remain dire, with widespread displacement and food shortages. Aid convoys are poised to enter the enclave once borders reopen under the truce.
Despite delays, political analysts suggest the ceasefire will proceed, offering a rare chance to reduce regional tensions and address Gaza’s humanitarian crisis. However, renewed strikes highlight the fragility of the situation, with Palestinian health authorities reporting escalating casualties.
If implemented, the deal could mark a turning point in a conflict that has claimed tens of thousands of lives and displaced most of Gaza’s 2.3 million residents.