In a significant development, Israel has agreed to a ceasefire framework proposed by US President Joe Biden to end the war in Gaza, which includes a six-week initial ceasefire phase and withdrawal of Israeli forces from populated areas. The plan, which also calls for the release of some prisoners and hostages, has been met with internal political resistance, with right-wing ministers threatening to bring down the government over what they perceive as a concession to Hamas. Despite this, Israeli President Isaac Herzog has pledged support for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in completing the deal to release hostages held by Hamas.The ceasefire proposal has sparked widespread protests in Israel, with thousands demanding the government accept the US-brokered plan to release Israeli hostages. Hamas has expressed a willingness to consider the proposal constructively, provided it includes a definitive ceasefire, the withdrawal of Israeli troops, and the reconstruction of Gaza. However, the Israeli government has made it clear that the war will not end until it achieves its military objectives, including the elimination of Hamas’s military and government capabilities in Gaza.The international community, including Qatar, Egypt, and the US, continues to urge both parties to finalize an agreement based on the principles outlined by Washington. The situation remains tense, with ongoing Israeli bombardment of Gaza despite calls for a ceasefire, and a significant humanitarian crisis unfolding as the conflict has resulted in a staggering number of deaths and displacements.
Key points
- Israel has accepted a US-brokered ceasefire framework to end the Gaza war, which includes a six-week initial ceasefire.
- The agreement faces opposition from right-wing Israeli ministers, with threats to collapse the government.
- Israeli President Isaac Herzog supports the deal, emphasizing the need to release hostages held by Hamas.
- Despite the ceasefire agreement, Israel continues its military objectives, including the destruction of Hamas.
- International mediators are urging both sides to finalize the ceasefire, amidst a significant humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
Contradictions
- Some sources claim Israel has accepted the ceasefire proposal, while others report that Israel continues its offensive in Gaza.
- Israeli ministers are divided on the ceasefire, with some supporting and others opposing it.
