For Palestinians, U.S. Talk of a “Revitalized” PA in Gaza Is Code for Outsourced Oppression
InterceptJan 28, 2024
Cease-fire, Hostage Release Deal in Gaza Reached
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Above: People watch the live television broadcast of a press conference being addressed by Qatar's Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani, along a street in Khan Yunis in the southern Gaza Strip on January 15, 2025. Image copyright: Bashar Taleb/Contributor/AFP via Getty Images
The Facts
A deal securing a cease-fire in Gaza and the release of Israeli hostages was reportedly approved by Israel and Hamas on Wednesday, though the agreement still needs to be approved by Israel's security cabinet, which is expected to convene on Thursday.
The deal will be implemented on Sunday, with Hamas telling people in Gaza "not to move" until the cease-fire officially comes into effect. Hamas reportedly will release 33 Israeli hostages in the first phase of the deal.
The Spin
Pro-establishment narrative
Though Hamas, in many cases, was the main obstacle to achieving an end to this terrible war, the Biden admin. is proud of its role in mediating. With a deal agreed upon, the hostages will return home and Israel will be more secure. Though Israel has had to make hard decisions, it will be worth it when peace is finally achieved.
Pro-Israel narrative
Though Israel wants nothing more than to see all the hostages released, this deal may not be in the country's best interest. In the past, Palestinian prisoners released by Israel have played critical roles in terrorist plots against the country. Indeed, Yahya Sinwar, Hamas' slain leader, was a security prisoner released in an exchange deal. Israel may pay for this deal in blood many years down the road.
Pro-Palestine narrative
Though a cease-fire is long overdue, Gaza has been destroyed. Indeed, the Israel-Palestinian "conflict" is not over, and Israel's occupation and apartheid system will remain. However, this war has proved that the Palestinian cause cannot be dealt with via security measures or normalization agreements between Arab autocrats and Israel. Regardless of what happens next, Palestinians will continue to struggle for their liberation.
