Israel-Gaza Conflict / Israel's cabinet approves ceasefire in Gaza and release of dozens of hostages

The Israeli cabinet has approved a ceasefire and hostage release agreement in Gaza. Under this, 33 hostages will be released in exchange for the release of hundreds of Palestinians. Humanitarian aid will increase and the army will withdraw from many areas. Netanyahu's government is facing opposition.

Vikrant Shekhawat : Jan 18, 2025, 09:50 AM
Israel-Gaza Conflict: A major step has been taken towards ending the long-standing tension and conflict in Israel and Gaza. According to the AP report, the Israeli cabinet has approved the agreement for a ceasefire in Gaza and the release of dozens of hostages. This decision could prove to be a turning point, which is expected to end the 15-month-long violence and humanitarian crisis.

How was this decision made?

The Israeli Security Cabinet held an important meeting on Friday. The purpose of this meeting was to agree on the release of dozens of people held hostage by terrorists in Gaza and to implement a ceasefire. Many important issues were discussed in this meeting led by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

Before the meeting, the Prime Minister's Office had said that there were some obstacles in finalizing the agreement. However, it was made clear that efforts are on to remove these obstacles. Earlier on Thursday also, this agreement was discussed in the Security Cabinet meeting, but then the voting was delayed due to some disputes with Hamas.

What are the terms of the agreement?

Under the agreement:

Release of hostages: Out of the 100 people held hostage in Gaza, 33 will be released in the first six weeks.

Release of Palestinians: In return, Israel has agreed to release hundreds of Palestinians from captivity.

Ceasefire and humanitarian aid: With the ceasefire, the Israeli army will withdraw from some areas. This will give thousands of Palestinians a chance to return to their homes and rebuild their lives. Humanitarian aid will also be increased.

Next phase plan: The second phase of the agreement will be implemented to release other hostages, including male soldiers.

Political challenges and opposition

However, this decision has received mixed reactions in Israeli politics. Prime Minister Netanyahu's right-wing allies have strongly opposed this agreement. These leaders believe that the release of Palestinians can increase security risks.

This decision is politically risky for Netanyahu, as he is dependent on his right-wing coalition partners. Nevertheless, they have shown determination to implement this agreement, which is being considered a major step towards peace and stability.

What is expected next?

If this agreement is successfully implemented, it will not only ensure the release of hostages but will also be an important initiative towards ending the decades-long conflict between Israel and Gaza. The increase in humanitarian aid is expected to bring relief to the people of Gaza.

However, the success of this agreement will depend on many factors, such as the consent of both the parties, regional and international support, and the process of its implementation on the ground.

Conclusion

This agreement between Israel and Gaza is an important step, which raises new hopes towards ending the long-standing conflict. But this is only the first stage, and its implementation and sustainability will require political will and cooperation.