The Israeli Security Cabinet is convening today to deliberate on a proposed ceasefire agreement with Hamas, which includes the release of hostages taken during the deadly October 7, 2023, raid in southern Israel. The deal, if approved, would mark the beginning of a six-week truce and initiate a phased process aimed at de-escalating the conflict in Gaza.

Hostage Release Plan

Under the terms of the agreement, the initial phase would see the release of 33 hostages currently held by Hamas, including three Israeli women soldiers and French-Israeli citizens Ofer Kalderon and Ohad Yahalomi. The hostages would first be transported to Egypt before their return to Israel, according to sources close to the negotiations.

In exchange, Israel is expected to release a number of Palestinian prisoners and facilitate humanitarian aid corridors into Gaza.

Opposition Within the Cabinet

Despite international support for the agreement, internal opposition remains strong. Far-right ministers Itamar Ben-Gvir and Bezalel Smotrich have voiced their disapproval, with Ben-Gvir threatening to resign if the deal is approved. Both ministers argue that the agreement undermines Israel’s military achievements and accuse it of emboldening Hamas.

Ben-Gvir stated in a televised address that the deal is "irresponsible" and called for a complete halt to humanitarian aid until all hostages are released.

International Reactions

The Group of Seven (G7) leaders have hailed the ceasefire agreement as a "significant development," emphasizing the importance of addressing the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. French President Emmanuel Macron has also expressed optimism about the hostage release, praising the role of international mediators like Qatar, Egypt, and the United States.

Challenges Ahead

While the ceasefire marks a potential turning point, many details remain unresolved. Key issues include the terms for further Israeli troop withdrawals, the release of additional hostages, and the negotiation of a permanent end to hostilities.

Hamas has denied Israeli accusations of last-minute renegotiation, affirming its commitment to the agreement as presented by mediators.

A Devastating Conflict

The war, which began after Hamas-led attacks in October 2023, has resulted in over 46,700 Palestinian deaths, according to Gaza health authorities, and significant casualties in Israel. Humanitarian organizations have described the situation in Gaza as catastrophic, with urgent calls for aid delivery and civilian protections.

The Security Cabinet's decision today will determine the immediate next steps in what has become one of the most critical efforts to de-escalate tensions in the region.