Thu Jan 16 13:34:19 UTC 2025: ## Gaza Ceasefire Deal Reached, But Last-Minute Disputes and Deadly Strikes Cast Shadow

**GAZA CITY/JERUSALEM, January 16, 2025** – A long-awaited ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas, intended to release dozens of hostages and pause the 15-month conflict in the Gaza Strip, is hanging in the balance due to last-minute disputes, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced Thursday. Despite the deal’s announcement, Israeli airstrikes continued, killing at least 72 Palestinians on Thursday alone, according to Gaza’s Health Ministry. The ministry stressed that this number only reflects casualties brought to two Gaza City hospitals and that the true toll is likely higher.

Netanyahu’s office stated that the Israeli Cabinet will postpone its scheduled vote to approve the agreement until Hamas addresses what it terms a “last-minute crisis.” Hamas is accused of reneging on aspects of the deal, attempting to secure further concessions.

The escalating violence in the final hours before a potential ceasefire echoes patterns from previous conflicts, where both sides intensified military operations to project strength. This latest surge of airstrikes has drawn sharp criticism, with Zaher al-Wahedi, head of Gaza’s Health Ministry registration department, declaring, “Yesterday was a bloody day, and today is bloodier.”

Opposition to the deal is also brewing within Israel. The Gvura Forum, representing families of soldiers killed in the conflict, staged a protest in Jerusalem, displaying mock coffins draped in Israeli flags. They argue the agreement is too lenient on Hamas, failing to ensure its destruction and potentially releasing Palestinians convicted of deadly attacks against Israelis. Concerns remain that some Israeli hostages may remain in Gaza if the deal collapses.

International reactions are mixed. Russia expressed hope for lasting stability, praising the mediating efforts of Qatar and Egypt, and noting the involvement of the incoming US administration. Other nations, including Britain and China, welcomed the ceasefire but emphasized the need for its full implementation and a lasting peace based on a two-state solution. Iran, however, called for the prosecution of Israeli leaders for war crimes. A statement released by the Iran-backed Iraqi militia, Harakat al-Nujaba, announced a suspension of operations against Israel in solidarity with the ceasefire, though it emphasized its forces remain on standby.

The three-phase agreement, brokered by Qatar, Egypt, and the US, would see the phased release of hostages in exchange for the release of Palestinian prisoners. The first phase is scheduled to begin Sunday, but uncertainty remains over the final details and whether the deal will ultimately be ratified by the Israeli government. The deal’s success hinges on resolving the remaining disagreements and ensuring all parties adhere to its terms. Families of hostages, meanwhile, are anxiously awaiting news and bracing for further uncertainty.

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