Fri Jan 17 02:03:01 UTC 2025: ## Gaza Ceasefire Deal Delayed Amidst Accusations of Hamas Backtracking

**Jerusalem/Gaza City** – A long-awaited ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, initially slated to begin Sunday, is facing delays due to last-minute disputes. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu accused Hamas of backtracking on key details of the agreement, prompting a postponement of a crucial cabinet vote. The deal, brokered by the US, Qatar, and Egypt, would see the release of 33 Israeli hostages held by Hamas since October 2023, in the first phase of a six-week truce.

The announcement of the ceasefire, following a devastating 15-month war that has claimed tens of thousands of lives and devastated Gaza, was met with mixed reactions. While some hailed it as a crucial step towards peace, others expressed concerns. Relatives of hostages staged protests in Tel Aviv demanding a swifter release, while three individuals were arrested in Jerusalem for disrupting protests against the agreement.

Netanyahu’s accusations of Hamas backtracking center around disagreements concerning the release of Palestinian prisoners. This development has raised serious concerns about the deal’s future, especially given the precarious political situation in Israel. The far-right members of Netanyahu’s coalition, National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir and Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, threatened to withdraw their parties if the deal is approved, potentially collapsing the government. Opposition leader Yair Lapid urged Netanyahu to proceed, prioritizing the hostages’ release.

Despite the setbacks, US officials remain optimistic. Secretary of State Antony Blinken expressed confidence that the ceasefire will begin as planned, while National Security Advisor John Kirby stated the White House is working with Israel to resolve the remaining issues. President-elect Donald Trump also weighed in, urging a swift conclusion before his inauguration.

The ongoing conflict has left Gaza in ruins, with the UN and international aid organizations calling for a significant increase in humanitarian aid. The EU has pledged €120 million in new aid, while the UK government welcomed the agreement. However, the situation remains tense, with ongoing Israeli airstrikes in Gaza reportedly killing dozens in the past 24 hours, and Hamas’s armed wing warning that continued attacks risk the lives of the hostages. The international community is closely watching as the fate of the deal hangs in the balance.

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