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Israel Delays Cabinet Meeting on Ceasefire Deal, Blames Hamas for Setback Amid Ongoing Airstrikes
Israel has postponed a cabinet meeting to ratify the ceasefire agreement with Hamas, citing delays caused by the militant group. Meanwhile, overnight airstrikes in Gaza have claimed 77 lives. Efforts to resolve the final dispute, involving Palestinian prisoner releases, continue with U.S., Qatari, and Egyptian mediators.
ND
by News Desk
2025-01-16
Israel Delays Cabinet Meeting on Ceasefire Deal, Blames Hamas for Setback Amid Ongoing Airstrikes

In a developing situation concerning the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, Israel announced a delay in holding its cabinet meeting scheduled for Thursday, where officials were set to ratify a ceasefire deal that was agreed upon the previous day. The delay is being blamed on Hamas, with the militant group accused of stalling the process.

The ceasefire, which was brokered with the help of international mediators, including officials from Egypt, Qatar, and the United States, was designed to bring an end to over 15 months of violent conflict. The agreement, which was set to take effect on Sunday, outlines a six-week initial ceasefire, the gradual withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza, and the exchange of hostages and prisoners.

Despite the delay, Hamas senior official Izzat el-Reshiq affirmed that the group remains committed to the ceasefire deal, stating that they are still on track for the proposed terms. However, there are still disagreements over the release of several prisoners, with Hamas insisting on the inclusion of specific Palestinian detainees held by Israel.

U.S. envoys Brett McGurk and Steve Witkoff, along with Egyptian and Qatari mediators, are in Doha working to resolve the remaining issues, including finalizing the identities of the prisoners Hamas demands be freed. While negotiations are ongoing, a U.S. official involved in the talks expressed optimism that a resolution is imminent.

Israeli spokesperson David Mencer confirmed that Israeli negotiators are actively involved in efforts to overcome the final hurdles, emphasizing that the ceasefire agreement is close to being finalized.

Overnight, Israeli airstrikes on Gaza claimed the lives of at least 77 people, according to Palestinian authorities, further heightening tensions in the region. The ceasefire agreement aims to bring an end to the devastating violence that has plagued Gaza, with hopes of providing a path toward long-term peace in the region.

The conflict, which has caused widespread destruction and loss of life, has drawn international attention, with world leaders urging both sides to reach an agreement that could bring an end to the bloodshed and allow for much-needed humanitarian aid to reach those affected in Gaza.
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