On January 17, 2025, Israel's security cabinet recommended approving a ceasefire deal with Hamas, which includes the return of hostages. The decision followed a comprehensive review of political, security, and humanitarian factors, as stated by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office.
The agreement is expected to take effect on January 21, 2025, pending ratification by the full 33-member cabinet. The first phase involves the release of 33 Israeli hostages, including women and children, in exchange for approximately 1,000 Palestinian prisoners.
Netanyahu indicated that he received assurances from U.S. Presidents Joe Biden and Donald Trump that military support would resume if negotiations for a second phase fail. The Palestinian Authority expressed readiness to take full responsibility in Gaza post-ceasefire.
Qatar played a pivotal role in brokering the ceasefire, with its Prime Minister emphasizing the necessity of establishing a Palestinian state to achieve lasting peace. The deal has sparked celebrations across the Middle East, though concerns remain regarding the ongoing violence, with reports of over 100 casualties in Gaza since the announcement.
International responses include the EU's readiness to redeploy a monitoring mission to the Rafah border crossing and a commitment of €120 million in humanitarian aid for Gaza. The G7 nations have described the ceasefire as a significant development and called for its full implementation.
As the situation evolves, Netanyahu faces internal political challenges, with coalition partners expressing opposition to the deal. The coming days will be critical for the ceasefire's implementation and the broader Israeli-Palestinian conflict.