“The prime minister instructed the IDF that the ceasefire, which is supposed to go into effect at 8:30 a.m., will not begin until Israel has the list of released abductees that Hamas has pledged to provide,” the statement read.
Ceasefire under scrutiny
In a televised national address delivered 12 hours before the ceasefire was to take effect, Netanyahu described the pause in hostilities as temporary. He affirmed Israel’s right to resume military operations if deemed necessary and noted support from US President-elect Donald Trump.
“I negotiated the best deal possible,” Netanyahu asserted, amid criticism from far-right Public Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, who announced plans to resign along with most of his party in protest against the agreement.
The ceasefire, brokered with mediation from Qatar, had been agreed upon under the condition that Hamas would provide a list of hostages to be released. However, as of three hours past the deadline, Israel had yet to receive the list. There has been no immediate response from Hamas or Qatar regarding the delay.
Emotional toll on families
The Israeli Cabinet’s overnight approval of the ceasefire, held during the Jewish Sabbath, sparked a mix of relief and anxiety among families of hostages. Many are left wondering whether their loved ones will return alive.
The ceasefire represents a potential turning point in the 15-month conflict, which has been the deadliest and most destructive clash between Israel and the Hamas militant group. This is only the second ceasefire achieved during the prolonged conflict, following one over a year ago.
The agreement, reached under joint pressure from President-elect Trump and outgoing President Joe Biden, will enter its first phase lasting 42 days. Negotiations for a second, more challenging phase are expected to begin in approximately two weeks. After six weeks, Israel’s security Cabinet will review the situation to determine the next course of action.
