JERUSALEM — The Israeli cabinet is poised for a monumental vote tonight on a ceasefire agreement with Hamas that promises to bring a halt to the two-year war in Gaza and secure the release of all remaining hostages within a matter of days.
The pivotal decision, expected after a Security Cabinet meeting this evening, follows a flurry of indirect, U.S.-brokered talks that culminated in a confirmed, signed agreement on the “first phase” of a peace plan by both Israeli and Hamas representatives. The atmosphere is a blend of cautious relief and high-stakes tension, as the nation awaits the final approval that could end one of the most brutal chapters in Israeli-Palestinian history.
The Terms: Life for Lives
According to details emerging from negotiating teams in Egypt, the first phase of the agreement is hinged on a sequence of actions designed to bring immediate relief:
- Cabinet Ratification & Ceasefire: The ceasefire is slated to go into effect within 24 hours of the Israeli cabinet formally ratifying the deal.
- IDF Withdrawal: Simultaneously, Israeli forces are required to begin an initial, partial withdrawal from Gaza to an agreed-upon line.
- Hostage Release Countdown: Once the ceasefire is implemented, a 72-hour countdown will begin for Hamas to release all remaining hostages believed to be alive—estimated at around 20 individuals—as well as the remains of those deceased.
- Prisoner Exchange: In exchange for the hostages, Israel is expected to release a significant number of Palestinian prisoners, including hundreds detained during the Gaza war and approximately 250 serving life sentences.
The potential release of all hostages is a national demand and a moral imperative that has dominated Israeli public discourse since the beginning of the war, making the cabinet’s approval highly probable despite deep divisions within the government.
The Political Tightrope
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who announced he would convene the cabinet to “approve the agreement and bring all our dear hostages home,” faces a complex political maneuver. While the prospect of securing the release of the captives is overwhelmingly popular, the deal is strongly opposed by far-right ministers in his coalition.
Figures like Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich have publicly voiced their intention to vote against the deal, though they have not yet threatened to resign. Their opposition stems from deep ideological objections to any deal with Hamas and demands for a “complete victory” that includes the permanent retention of Israeli military presence in Gaza.
The Prime Minister’s ability to manage his hawkish flank will determine not just the deal’s immediate success, but potentially the stability of his government.
A Dawn of Hope in Gaza
The news of the agreement, brokered with the involvement of the United States, Egypt, and Qatar, has been met with scenes of both relief and caution across the region. In Tel Aviv’s Hostage Square, families of the captives gathered to celebrate, some chanting praises for the diplomatic efforts.
Meanwhile, in the devastated Gaza Strip, Palestinians celebrated the prospect of an end to hostilities and the entry of a critical surge in humanitarian aid. The agreement is set to open crossings for “full aid,” including fuel and supplies for infrastructure and hospitals.
While the “first phase” of the agreement is set, major, unresolved challenges remain: the long-term disarmament of Hamas, the complete withdrawal of Israeli forces, and the question of who will govern the shattered enclave.
Tonight’s vote, however, is not about the end of the conflict, but the desperately sought beginning of the end—a moment of profound significance for families on both sides, and a fragile step toward defusing a conflict that has convulsed the entire Middle East. The world watches, holding its breath for the final word.