Ceasefire and Hostage Exchange Between Hamas and Israel Faces Challenges
A highly anticipated ceasefire agreement and hostage exchange deal between Hamas and Israel is set to begin early Sunday morning, according to Qatar’s foreign ministry. However, late developments have cast uncertainty over the agreement’s implementation.
Ceasefire Details Announced by Qatar
Majid al-Ansari, a spokesperson for Qatar’s foreign ministry, announced on X (formerly Twitter) that the ceasefire is scheduled to commence at 1:30 a.m. EST (8:30 a.m. local time in Gaza). The deal, brokered by Qatar, outlines a temporary halt to hostilities and a phased release of hostages held by Hamas in exchange for Palestinian prisoners in Israeli custody.
Prime Minister Netanyahu Raises Concerns
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed doubts about the agreement proceeding as planned, citing Hamas’s failure to provide a list of hostages to be released—a stipulation agreed upon during negotiations. “Israel will not tolerate violations of the agreement. Hamas is solely responsible,” Netanyahu stated.
The Israeli leader emphasized that the ceasefire is viewed as temporary and warned that military operations could resume if Hamas does not adhere to the terms. Netanyahu also claimed support from U.S. President-elect Donald Trump, asserting that their discussions earlier this week reinforced Israel’s right to respond if necessary.
Hostage Release Timeline
The agreement involves a multi-phase process, starting with Hamas releasing 33 women and children hostages in exchange for 1,900 Palestinian prisoners. The initial exchange is slated to begin Sunday at 9 a.m. EST. Future phases include releasing more hostages over 42-day intervals, with priority given to those in poor health or older individuals.
Ongoing Violence and Humanitarian Concerns
Despite the ceasefire’s imminent start, violence persists. The Israeli military reported intercepting missiles launched from Yemen by the Iran-backed Houthis, while continuing its own strikes in Gaza. The Palestinian Health Ministry stated that at least 23 Palestinians were killed in the last 24 hours, adding to a death toll that has surpassed 46,000 since the conflict began in October 2023.
Meanwhile, humanitarian aid is being prepared for delivery into Gaza via Egypt’s Rafah border crossing. Egyptian officials are coordinating the transport of essential supplies and the evacuation of wounded Palestinians. Displaced residents, many living in overcrowded and unsanitary conditions, are eager to return to their homes, although much of Gaza has been left in ruins.
A War Triggered by Hamas’s Attack
The war erupted on October 7, 2023, when Hamas launched a large-scale attack on Israel, killing approximately 1,200 people and taking around 250 hostages. In response, Israel initiated a massive military campaign in Gaza, resulting in widespread destruction and significant civilian casualties.
Uncertainty Looms
The success of the ceasefire and hostage exchange depends on both parties adhering to the agreement. Hamas has yet to respond to Netanyahu’s demands for the hostage list, and continued missile attacks underline the fragility of the truce.
As the clock ticks down to the ceasefire deadline, the international community is watching closely, hoping that the agreement may pave the way for an end to the devastating conflict.