Israeli Government Greenlights Ceasefire and Hostage Agreement in Gaza
Headline: “Ceasefire Ushers Humanitarian Relief and Diplomatic Talks in Gaza”
Hundreds of humanitarian aid trucks are set to deliver essential supplies, such as food, medicine, and fuel, to Gaza’s two million residents in dire need, according to a United Nations announcement. Most of these individuals have been displaced, with many living in makeshift tents or among the debris of ravaged cities.
Israel Sanctions Daily Aid Deliveries Amid Partial Ceasefire
A senior Palestinian official confirmed to Emegypt that Israel plans to permit 400 aid trucks to enter Gaza daily for the initial five days, with an eventual gradual increase. This initiative represents a crucial component of the ceasefire intended to alleviate the humanitarian crisis in the region.
International Coalition to Supervise Ceasefire Stability
A multinational force of approximately 200 troops, overseen by the US military, will be responsible for monitoring adherence to the ceasefire in Gaza. This force is expected to comprise personnel from Egypt, Qatar, Turkey, and the UAE. Their primary mission is to “oversee, observe, and ensure there are no violations or breaches of the ceasefire,” as reported by a senior US official.
American Role in Gaza: Strategic Oversight
While no US forces will be deployed directly in Gaza, the US role is pivotal in establishing a Joint Control Centre. This center will work to “integrate” the multinational force assigned to the region, a move aimed at maintaining stability and security during the ceasefire period.
Israel’s Cabinet Endorses Ceasefire Deal After Lengthy Deliberations
The decision to approve the ceasefire deal followed extensive cabinet discussions extending into the early hours in Israel. In attendance were prominent figures such as US President Donald Trump’s son-in-law, Jared Kushner, and special envoy Steve Witkoff. Despite opposition from far-right minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, who objected to the release of prisoners accused of murder, the agreement represents a significant diplomatic achievement.
Challenges Ahead: Unresolved Issues Loom
While the ceasefire agreement is a diplomatic milestone, it addresses only a segment of Trump’s expansive 20-point peace initiative. Key issues like Hamas’ disarmament and future governance in Gaza remain largely unresolved. Hamas maintains its stance of retaining arms until the establishment of a Palestinian state, whereas Trump’s proposal envisions a transitional technocratic administration in Gaza before transitioning control to the Palestinian Authority.
Mixed Emotions in Gaza and Israel
The announcement of the ceasefire facilitated joyous reactions across Israel and Gaza. In Tel Aviv’s Hostages’ Square, the atmosphere was festive as crowds waved Israeli and American flags, celebrating with chants and fireworks. In southern Gaza, Hanaa Almadhoun, displaced by the conflict and hopeful for a return to her northern home, expressed relief and optimism.
Context of Conflict: October 2023 and Humanitarian Crisis
Israel’s military offensive in Gaza, initiated after the October 7 Hamas attacks that killed approximately 1,200 people and resulted in 251 hostages, has led to significant casualties. According to Gaza’s Hamas-run health ministry, 67,194 Palestinians, including 20,179 children, have perished in the violence, figures deemed credible by the UN and international bodies.
The ministry also reported 460 deaths from malnutrition, highlighting an ongoing food crisis in Gaza City that experts confirmed in August. UN officials and former UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy have termed the crisis “man-made,” detaching it from the Israeli-imposed aid restrictions, including an 11-week blockade designed to pressure Hamas into releasing hostages. Israel rebuffed the UN-backed report, stating that it currently imposes no such aid restrictions.
