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Tensions Rise as Israel-Hamas Ceasefire Deal Faces Approval Hurdles

Information

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu warned that a ceasefire agreement with Hamas was not yet finalized, with key details still being discussed. The deal, which could lead to the release of Israeli hostages and Palestinian prisoners, would not be approved until the Cabinet votes later. Meanwhile, deadly Israeli strikes continued in Gaza, and Netanyahu’s office accused Hamas of stalling the agreement to extract last-minute concessions. Despite this, Hamas insisted it was committed to the ceasefire deal, which is seen as a temporary step toward a broader peace.

Celebrations broke out in Gaza and among Israeli supporters as both sides hoped for the agreement’s approval. Mediators from the US and Qatar have emphasized that the ceasefire is only a starting point, with further discussions needed for a lasting resolution. Netanyahu’s office stated that the deal would not be signed until Hamas fully accepted its terms, while some feared the ongoing conflict would delay the ceasefire’s implementation. Polymarket odds on a ceasefire before January 31 shot up over the last week, climbing from below 40% to over 90%, indicating that a large portion of people using the site believe the ceasefire is close.

Source: AP, AFP, dpa, Reuters @Polymarket

So what

While there is hope for peace, the ceasefire may still fail before it begins. Hamas often tries to impose favourable terms at the last moment, using public pressure to influence Israel, but this may not work now as the Israeli government views the incoming Trump administration as a strength. Following the announcement of the deal, videos showed Hamas militants celebrating, leading Israel to conduct airstrikes against them. Although these strikes were legitimate, occurring before the ceasefire, they could add pressure on the agreement.

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