The Israel-Hamas ceasefire deal, set to begin on Sunday, promises to halt hostilities for 42 days, marking a significant step towards peace in the embattled Gaza Strip. The agreement involves a crucial exchange of hostages held by Hamas and Palestinians detained in Israeli prisons. However, the persistent strikes on Gaza by Israel, even after the announcement of the ceasefire, have cast a shadow over the deal's prospects. Critics argue that the damage to Israel's international reputation could endure for decades.
The ceasefire plan has not been without its detractors. Far-right Israeli ministers, Bezalel Smotrich and Itamar Ben Gvir, have voiced strong opposition to the deal. Conversely, Israeli President Isaac Herzog has described it as the "right move," signaling official support at the highest levels of government. Meanwhile, US President Joe Biden acknowledged the suffering of the Palestinian people, emphasizing that too many innocent lives have been lost. Biden also highlighted the role of peacemakers in facilitating this agreement.
"The Bible says blessed are the peacemakers. Many peacemakers helped make this deal happen." – Joe Biden
Key mediator Qatar announced that in the initial phase of the ceasefire, 33 hostages held by Hamas in Gaza would be released. Despite these developments, medics reported that 32 people were killed in Gaza late on Wednesday, underscoring the fragile nature of peace efforts.
The complexity of the situation is further illustrated by Israel's continued military actions against Gaza, even as talks of peace progress. Donald Trump, the US president-elect, expressed optimism about the deal, highlighting its potential to halt fighting, increase humanitarian aid, and reunite hostages with their families.
"This epic ceasefire agreement could have only happened as a result of our historic victory in November … I am thrilled American and Israeli hostages will be returning home to be reunited with their families and loved ones." – Donald Trump
The ceasefire aims to end the ongoing war in the Palestinian territory and address significant security and political obstacles to aid delivery across Gaza. The United States has played a pivotal role in mediating the agreement, with President Biden acknowledging the necessity of Israel's military operations while expressing reservations about its peace strategy.
Iran's influence in the region is perceived to have weakened as a result of the conflict, presenting a strategic shift in Middle Eastern geopolitics. The deal was finalized after extensive negotiations in Doha, Qatar, and awaits formal acceptance by Israel following a cabinet meeting scheduled for Thursday.
"The two belligerents in the Gaza Strip have reached a deal on the prisoner and the hostage swap, and [the mediators] announce a ceasefire in the hopes of reaching a permanent ceasefire between the two sides." – Sheikh Mohammed
Despite the ceasefire's potential, Israel has committed to not cooperating with UNRWA, the UN agency for Palestinian refugees, and other NGOs. This stance may complicate efforts to provide humanitarian assistance during the ceasefire period.
Al Jazeera reporters on the ground in Gaza have captured both hope and skepticism among residents regarding the ceasefire's implementation. Reports from Gaza describe an atmosphere of cautious optimism mixed with fear as Israeli military actions continue.
"An hour ago, I was documenting the joy of the people of Gaza at the news of the ceasefire, but the Israeli occupation, as usual, continues to commit massacres." – Al Jazeera reporter
"It’s as if we are living the first days of the Israeli aggression." – Hossam Shabat, Al Jazeera reporter