Sat Jan 18 08:56:24 UTC 2025: ## Gaza Ceasefire Vote Delayed Amidst Last-Minute Hamas Demands
**Jerusalem/Washington –** A planned Thursday vote on a Gaza ceasefire deal has been delayed by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who accuses Hamas of seeking last-minute concessions. While the US expresses confidence the ceasefire will begin Sunday as scheduled, the delay throws a shadow over the fragile agreement reached after months of intense negotiations.
The postponement follows a surge in Israeli airstrikes in Gaza after Wednesday’s initial deal announcement, resulting in over 80 reported fatalities according to Hamas-run health ministry. Netanyahu’s office stated that the cabinet will not convene until Hamas fully accepts the agreement, citing attempts by Hamas to add members to the list of Palestinian prisoners slated for release.
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken acknowledged the delay, stating that “loose ends” were being addressed. He expressed confidence that the ceasefire, which involves a phased approach including prisoner exchanges, troop withdrawals, and aid delivery, would still commence on Sunday.
Israeli media reports suggest the issue has been resolved, with a cabinet vote expected on Friday. However, this remains unconfirmed. Adding to the tension, Israeli Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir threatened his party’s withdrawal from Netanyahu’s government if the deal is approved, deeming it “reckless.” His call for fellow far-right minister Bezalel Smotrich to join him was met with internal party debate.
Despite the delay, a senior Hamas official confirmed their commitment to the agreement, informing Qatar and Egypt of their approval. However, reports suggest Hamas sought to add a few symbolic names to the prisoner exchange list. The first phase of the deal includes the release of 33 hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners, alongside Israeli troop withdrawals and aid delivery to Gaza. Subsequent phases will address the remaining hostages, complete troop withdrawal, and long-term reconstruction.
The conflict, triggered by a large-scale Hamas attack on Israel in October, has resulted in devastating losses on both sides. Over 46,788 deaths have been reported in Gaza, and widespread destruction necessitates significant humanitarian aid. The ceasefire agreement aims to halt the violence and initiate a process of rebuilding, but the current impasse underscores the complex challenges ahead.
First Piper 