Netanyahu's Cabinet Postpones Ceasefire Meeting Until Hamas Withdraws New Demands

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office announced that the Cabinet will delay approving a ceasefire agreement in Gaza. The delay is due to accusations against Hamas for not adhering to parts of the deal. The office did not provide further details. Meanwhile, Israeli airstrikes have resulted in at least 72 deaths in Gaza since the ceasefire announcement, according to Gaza's Health Ministry.

In previous conflicts, both sides have intensified military actions just before ceasefires to show strength. The current deal, expected to start on Sunday, involves releasing 33 hostages over six weeks in exchange for hundreds of Palestinians held by Israel. A second phase will negotiate the release of remaining captives, including male soldiers.

Hamas and Israeli Standoff

Hamas insists it will not free the remaining captives without a permanent ceasefire and full Israeli withdrawal. The ongoing offensive has reportedly killed over 46,000 people in Gaza, mostly women and children, according to the Health Ministry. Israel claims over 17,000 fighters were killed but hasn't provided evidence.

Far-right National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir threatened to leave the government if Israel approves the ceasefire. However, he stated his party would rejoin if fighting continues. His departure wouldn't affect Netanyahu's parliamentary majority or prevent a ceasefire if approved by the Cabinet.

Palestinian Leadership Preparations

Palestinian leaders in the West Bank are preparing for potential governance responsibilities in Gaza. Prime Minister Mohammad Mustafa met with officials to discuss plans for managing essential services and coordinating humanitarian aid. Israel plans to collaborate with local Palestinians unaffiliated with Hamas or the Palestinian Authority, though it's unclear if such partners exist.

The European Union is ready to resume monitoring the Rafah border crossing between Gaza and Egypt. An EU delegation will visit Cairo next week to assist with implementing the ceasefire deal. EU Commission spokesperson Anouar El Anouni confirmed plans to redeploy depend on consent from Israeli and Palestinian authorities.

International Involvement

The Rafah border has been closed since Israeli forces captured it last May. The preliminary ceasefire deal includes provisions for hundreds of aid trucks entering Gaza daily. On Thursday, the EU approved €120 million ($123 million) in humanitarian aid for food security, shelter, and healthcare in Gaza.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken expressed confidence that the ceasefire deal would proceed as planned this weekend despite last-minute disputes between Israel and Hamas. During a briefing, Blinken faced interruptions from individuals accusing him of complicity in violence against Palestinian civilians.

Blinken described the ceasefire and hostage agreement as "a moment of historic possibility for the region." He emphasized that achieving a more integrated Middle East would require significant effort, political courage, and compromise.