Israel’s Security Cabinet Approves Trump’s Ceasefire Agreement

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Israel’s security cabinet approves a contentious ceasefire and hostage exchange deal with Hamas, sparking internal political discord and raising questions about national security.

What now?

At a Glance

  • Israel’s security cabinet approves deal for release of 50 hostages in exchange for 150 Palestinian prisoners
  • Four-day ceasefire agreed, with potential for extension
  • Finance Minister Smotrich and National Security Minister Ben-Gvir oppose deal, citing security risks
  • Deal faces criticism from within Netanyahu’s Likud Party
  • Israeli President Herzog endorses the agreement, emphasizing humanitarian obligation

Cabinet Approves Controversial Deal

The Israeli security cabinet has approved a deal for the release of approximately 50 Israeli hostages held by Hamas in Gaza. The agreement, which passed with a vote of 35 to 3, involves a four-day ceasefire and the release of 150 Palestinian security prisoners in exchange for the hostages.

The hostages to be released include children, mothers, and other women, who will be freed in groups of 12-13 over the course of four days. This deal has the potential to be extended, with one additional day of ceasefire for every 10 additional hostages freed. However, the agreement has faced significant pushback from within Prime Minister Netanyahu’s own government.

Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich and National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir have both voiced strong opposition to the deal, however, citing concerns over national security risks. Ben-Gvir has gone as far as to suggest he might resign if the agreement is approved, highlighting the deep divisions within the Israeli government over this issue.

“The Israeli government is committed to bringing all the abductees home. Tonight, the government approved the outline for the first stage of achieving this goal, under which at least 50 abductees – women and children – will be released over a span of four days, during which there will be a lull in the fighting,” an Israeli government statement said.

Despite the internal opposition, the deal has received support from all Israeli security agencies, which influenced some ministers to back it. Prime Minister Netanyahu has insisted on conditions, including the potential release of more hostages and a refusal to release prisoners convicted of murder.

Humanitarian Concerns and International Mediation

The agreement comes amid growing humanitarian concerns in Gaza, where 90% of the population is displaced. The World Health Organization has emphasized the importance of finalizing the ceasefire to aid humanitarian efforts in the region. The deal was mediated by Egypt, the United States, and Qatar, with Qatar confirming the agreement and announcing that the start time would be within 24 hours.

“Our main concern is the long time. They are probably held in very very bad conditions, lack of nutrition, lack of hygiene,” Dr. Hagar Mizrahi said, highlighting the urgent need for the hostages’ release.

The agreement also includes provisions for increased aid entry to Gaza, although it does not address the blockade imposed by Israel and Egypt. The Red Cross will have access to remaining hostages in Gaza for medical supplies, addressing some of the immediate humanitarian concerns.

As Israel prepares to implement this controversial agreement, the nation remains divided on its merits.

But there remains a huge question: what if Hamas reneges on the deal before we reach the second step?