Netanyahu Delays Cabinet Vote on Israel-Gaza Ceasefire and Hostage Deal Amid Hamas Dispute
Prime Minister Postpones Decision as Disagreements Arise Over Agreement Terms
- Israeli cabinet vote on ceasefire and hostage deal postponed due to Hamas’ non-compliance with parts of the agreement
- Ceasefire agreement includes a 42-day pause in hostilities, Israeli military withdrawal, and aid delivery to Gaza
- Future phases aim for full hostage release
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has postponed a cabinet meeting scheduled to approve a ceasefire and hostage deal with Hamas, citing the group’s failure to honor parts of the agreement.
Netanyahu’s office stated that the meeting would be delayed until Hamas accepts all terms of the deal. While a Hamas official reaffirmed the group’s commitment to the deal, no additional details were provided.
The agreement, if approved, would bring a 42-day ceasefire beginning Sunday, allowing Israeli military withdrawal from some Gaza areas and facilitating a major influx of aid. In exchange, hostages held by Hamas would be swapped with Palestinians in Israeli prisons.
Future negotiations aim for the release of all hostages, full Israeli withdrawal from Gaza, and a permanent ceasefire. The deal, brokered by the US, Egypt, and Qatar, is expected to take effect the day before President-elect Donald Trump’s inauguration.
