Vikrant Shekhawat : Jan 19, 2025, 10:20 AM
Israel Hamas News: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has made it clear that his country considers the recent ceasefire with Hamas only a temporary solution. He said that if circumstances change or Hamas violates the agreement, Israel has every right to resume fighting. He also said that the process of releasing the hostages will be carried forward as per the agreed conditions.Netanyahu also claimed that he has the support of US President-elect Donald Trump, giving his government diplomatic strength on the issue.Start of ceasefire and humanitarian reliefThe ceasefire agreement between Hamas and Israel came into effect at 8:30 am on Sunday (12 noon Indian time). Qatar's Foreign Minister Majid al-Ansari confirmed this and directed people to remain alert. The ceasefire is expected to bring an end to the 15-month-long conflict, which killed thousands and displaced millions.Along with the ceasefire, humanitarian aid delivery to Gaza has been accelerated. A large number of relief trucks are waiting near the Egyptian Rafah border, and preparations are being made to evacuate the injured.Release of hostages and first phase of the agreementUnder this agreement, Hamas will release 33 Israeli hostages in a phased manner. In return, Israel will release about 1,900 Palestinian prisoners, mostly residents of Gaza. In the first phase, priority will be given to minor boys, girls and women.Israel has made it clear that prisoners convicted of deadly attacks will be deported to Gaza or a third country. At the same time, Hamas has said that it will not release other hostages without a permanent ceasefire and complete withdrawal of Israel.Doubtful peace despite ceasefireDespite the ceasefire, tensions persist in the region. On Saturday, there were reports of sirens sounding in central Israel and a rocket fired from Yemen being neutralized. Iran-backed Houthi rebels have also stepped up their missile attacks. They say this is a way to build pressure to ensure a ceasefire in Gaza.According to the Palestinian Health Ministry, many civilians are still being killed in Israeli attacks.The future of unstable peaceThe ceasefire agreement is a temporary relief, but it is not clear whether it will lead to permanent peace or become the basis for a new conflict. Netanyahu referred to Israel's military successes in Lebanon and Syria, saying that this forced Hamas to ceasefire.Experts believe that deep diplomatic talks are needed to end this conflict. However, both Israel and Hamas have insisted on their terms, which can become a big obstacle in maintaining peace in the long run.Conclusion:This ceasefire is a means to stop the deadly conflict and provide humanitarian relief for the time being, but it can only be considered a beginning for lasting peace in the region. Netanyahu's warning and Hamas' conditions indicate that this tentative peace can break at any time.