Israel and Hamas Sign Ceasefire Deal to Release Hostages

Aakhir Tak – In Shorts

Israel and Hamas signed an official ceasefire deal, pausing the Gaza war.
The agreement includes the release of numerous Israeli hostages held by Hamas.
Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu announced a security cabinet meeting post-deal.
Disputes between Israel and Hamas delayed approval, but the deal was eventually reached.
Netanyahu reassured hostages’ families that arrangements were being made for their return.

Aakhir Tak – In Depth

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Ceasefire Agreement and Gaza Conflict
On Friday, Israel and Hamas officially signed a ceasefire agreement, marking a temporary halt to the 15-month-long Gaza conflict. The peace deal came after last-minute negotiations in Doha. The war initially began on October 7, 2023, when Hamas launched an attack on Israel, killing 1,200 Israelis and taking 250 hostages. In retaliation, Israel initiated airstrikes, resulting in a devastating toll on Gaza, with over 46,000 Palestinians reported dead.

Internal Political Pressure in Israel
Before the agreement was signed, Israeli officials were embroiled in intense internal debates. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had to secure support from his government, which faced resistance from far-right coalition partners who opposed the ceasefire. Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir had threatened to resign over the potential approval of the deal. However, Netanyahu remained committed to the objectives of the war, emphasizing the need for the return of all hostages, both living and deceased.

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Hostage Return and Government Responses
Netanyahu’s office confirmed that a special task force had been formed to oversee the hostages’ return from Gaza. Families of the hostages were informed immediately about the successful negotiations. Netanyahu expressed gratitude for the role of his government in securing the deal, but noted the tough internal resistance. Meanwhile, in Gaza, Israeli airstrikes killed at least 72 people during the ongoing negotiations on Thursday, underlining the toll of the conflict.

International Reactions and Fallout
Worldwide protests had intensified as civilian casualties in Gaza reached alarming levels, with a disproportionate number of women and children affected. The international community watched closely as Israel and Hamas reached this historic agreement, hopeful for a potential resolution to the ongoing violence. Health officials in Gaza revealed that over half of those killed were civilians, illustrating the human cost of the war.

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Aakhir Tak – Key Takeaways to Remember

Israel and Hamas signed a ceasefire deal to pause hostilities and secure hostage release.
The agreement followed internal political disputes within Israel, highlighting significant divisions.
Netanyahu reassured the public and hostages’ families, initiating preparations for their safe return.
The deal has brought both relief and resistance, with ongoing debates in Israeli politics.
The international community hopes for a lasting peace in the wake of the ceasefire.