US Secretary of State Antony Blinken denied media reports on Tuesday that Hamas had agreed to a ceasefire deal. According to Blinken, “It’s right on the brink. It’s closer than it’s ever been before, but right now… we await final word from Hamas on its acceptance, and until we get that word, it will remain on the brink.” He further explained that the final decision could come soon, either in the hours or days ahead.
Progress in Ceasefire Talks
Meanwhile, mediators from the US and Qatar have indicated that Israel and Hamas are closer than ever to finalizing a deal. This progress was confirmed by Egyptian and Hamas officials, although the specifics of the deal are still being negotiated. Despite the positive signs, officials caution that details need finalizing before any deal can be confirmed.
Israel Holds Urgent Security Meeting
In addition, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu convened an urgent meeting with top security officials on Tuesday evening. The meeting focused on discussing the potential deal to release hostages and cease the fighting. Netanyahu’s spokesperson confirmed that the session was specifically about the “status (of the deal).”
Ongoing Humanitarian Crisis in Gaza
If the deal is finalized, it could help address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, where Israeli airstrikes have caused significant destruction. Notably, around 90% of Gaza’s 2.3 million residents have been displaced, with many facing the risk of famine. However, any ceasefire agreement would first need approval from Israel’s Security Cabinet and full Cabinet, which are expected to back Netanyahu’s proposal.
Hope for a Deal Before Trump’s Inauguration
Optimism remains high that a deal could be reached before US President-elect Donald Trump’s inauguration. In fact, Hamas confirmed that negotiations had reached the “final stage.” If an agreement is finalized, it would pause the fighting and lead to the release of hostages, bringing relief to the region.
Three-Phase Agreement Proposal
The proposed deal consists of three phases. The first phase would involve the release of 33 hostages over six weeks, in exchange for Palestinian women and children imprisoned by Israel. Israeli officials believe most of the hostages are still alive. During this phase, Israeli forces would withdraw from population centers in Gaza, allowing displaced Palestinians to return and facilitating the delivery of humanitarian aid.
Unresolved Issues in the Second Phase
However, the second phase still requires extensive negotiation. Currently, there are no written guarantees that the ceasefire will continue until all phases are completed. Israel has stated it plans to maintain a military presence until all hostages are freed. In the third phase, the remaining hostages’ bodies would be returned, and a reconstruction plan for Gaza would be implemented under international supervision.
Increased Pressure for Ceasefire
Finally, there is growing pressure to finalize the ceasefire before Trump’s inauguration. Families of hostages and prisoners continue to demand a resolution. Inside Gaza, residents remain hopeful that a ceasefire will bring much-needed peace and stability to the region.