Vikrant Shekhawat : Jan 17, 2025, 10:00 AM
Israel-Hamas News: The saga of the long-running conflict between Israel and Hamas seems to be moving in a new direction. The ceasefire deal between the two sides has been finalized, although its formal announcement is yet to be made. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office has confirmed the agreement and called it an important step towards the release of the hostages.Importance and preparation of the agreementThe Prime Minister's Office has clarified that the negotiating team gave the final information of the agreement to Netanyahu. PM Netanyahu praised all the team members and colleagues involved in the talks. He reiterated his government's commitment to the release of hostages and missing people and directed officials to prepare for the reception and care of the released people.A meeting of the Israeli government is scheduled to be held to finalize the agreement. Before this, the Security Cabinet will also discuss the deal. However, controversies also continue around this deal. PM Netanyahu has accused Hamas of backtracking from the provisions of the agreement and adding new demands.Ceasefire announcement and subsequent developmentsThe announcement of the ceasefire agreement last Wednesday raised hopes that the conflict that has been going on for 15 months could come to an end. The conflict began with Hamas' attack on Israel on 7 October 2023, in which 1200 people were killed and 250 were taken hostage. In response, Israel carried out extensive air strikes on Gaza, killing thousands and injuring millions.However, the very next day of the ceasefire agreement, Israel attacked Gaza again. This makes it clear that the gulf of mistrust between the two sides is still deep.Conflict figures and humanitarian crisisThis conflict between Hamas and Israel has deepened the humanitarian crisis. More than 46,000 people have been killed in Gaza, while many more have been injured. Millions of people have been forced to leave their homes. At the same time, Israeli citizens have also suffered heavy losses in this war.Will the deal bring permanent peace?There are both hopes and doubts about this ceasefire deal. However, despite the deal being finalised, disputes between the two sides remain. Both Israel and Hamas are accusing each other of breaking promises. The condition of Hamas's retreat in Gaza and new demands raise questions about the success of the deal.A permanent solution to this conflict is possible only when both sides compromise on their terms and take concrete steps for peace. However, looking at the circumstances so far, it is difficult to say whether this deal will be a new beginning or just a temporary relief.ConclusionThe ongoing war between Israel and Hamas has taken many innocent lives and brought the region to the brink of destruction. The ceasefire deal has certainly raised hopes, but for this, sincere efforts from both sides will be necessary. In the coming days, it will become clear whether this deal will bring permanent peace in the region or it will also remain another link in the conflict.