Prime Minister Netanyahu initiates a task force to receive hostages, informing families of the agreement reached after Israel and Hamas agreed to pause the 15-month-long conflict.
(Source: The Times of Israel)
On Friday, January 17, 2025, Israel’s Security Cabinet recommended approval of a historic ceasefire agreement with Hamas, aimed at halting the 15-month-long Gaza conflict. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirmed that an agreement had been reached, which includes the release of numerous hostages held by militants. The agreement, finalized in Qatar, is expected to take effect on Sunday, pending a final vote from the full Israeli Cabinet. The Cabinet meeting, which extended into Shabbat, is expected to approve the deal by a large majority.
Gaza Hostage Release Deal: Israel and Hamas Reach Agreement Amid Ceasefire Talks for Peace
Under the landmark Gaza ceasefire deal, 33 hostages will be released over six weeks in exchange for Palestinian prisoners. Israeli forces will pull back from key areas, offering a chance for displaced Palestinians to return to their homes and receiving a significant increase in humanitarian aid. This deal sets the stage for a second phase, with more hostages, including soldiers, set to be freed. Hamas demands a permanent ceasefire and full Israeli withdrawal, while Israel vows to continue its efforts until Hamas is dismantled.
Hamas spokesperson Jaher Jabareen confirmed that the names of released prisoners will be revealed shortly. As for Gaza’s post-war future, crucial questions remain about who will govern and manage the territory’s reconstruction.
Israel’s Security Cabinet Evaluates Diplomatic, Security, and Humanitarian Considerations in Ceasefire Agreement
Israel’s security cabinet made a key recommendation after carefully evaluating all diplomatic, security, and humanitarian elements of the proposed ceasefire deal. The Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) emphasized that the agreement aligns with Israel’s broader objectives for the war, aiming to stabilize the region while addressing critical humanitarian concerns. The cabinet members examined the potential outcomes of the deal, weighing its impact on both the security of Israel and the welfare of those affected by the ongoing conflict.
However, the recommendation did not come without internal disagreement. While many supported the deal, Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich and National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir, along with Likud’s David Amsalem, opposed it. Their opposition underscored the divisions within the security cabinet, especially on strategic military decisions. Despite this, the majority backed the agreement, ensuring it moved forward for the full cabinet’s vote. Once approved, the ceasefire deal will bring the possibility of peace and the release of hostages held in Gaza, marking a crucial moment in the 15-month conflict.
Netanyahu Leads Security Assessment Before Cabinet Meeting on Gaza Ceasefire Agreement
Before the highly anticipated security cabinet meeting, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu participated in a thorough security assessment to discuss the implementation of the ceasefire agreement with the negotiating team. The team had just returned from Doha after finalizing the deal with Hamas.
The full cabinet meeting, initially scheduled for 3:30 p.m., was delayed by over two hours. Originally set to occur on Saturday evening, it was moved earlier after several ministers, including those from the Haredi community, emphasized that Shabbat should not delay a life-saving matter like the ceasefire deal.
The ceasefire deal, confirmed by mediators on Wednesday, is expected to take effect at 12:15 p.m. on Sunday. Unconfirmed Hebrew media reports suggest that the first three female hostages could be released by 4 p.m. on the same day. Israel is anticipated to receive the identities of the first returnees by 4 p.m. on Saturday.
Shin Bet and Mossad Chiefs Urge Urgent Ceasefire Approval Amid Hostage Concerns
Shin Bet chief Ronen Bar and Mossad director David Barnea returned from Qatar after finalizing the ceasefire deal, urging immediate approval from Israel’s security cabinet. They warned that delays in passing the agreement could jeopardize the lives of hostages held by Hamas. Prime Minister Netanyahu reassured the cabinet, confirming that Israel received ironclad guarantees from President Biden and Trump. Should the ceasefire fail or Hamas not meet Israel’s security terms, Netanyahu emphasized Israel’s readiness to resume military action with U.S. backing. The Likud party echoed these guarantees, stressing that the deal ensures continued military readiness and long-term national security.
