Progress made in talks over Israel-Hamas ceasefire and hostage release, officials say
Associated PressJan 14
Israeli Security Cabinet Vote on Gaza Deal Delayed
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Above: Israeli protesters block a road during a demonstration against the ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas in Jerusalem, Israel, on Jan. 16, 2025. Image copyright: Kobi Wolf/Contributor/Bloomberg via Getty Images
The Facts
Though an agreement between Israel and Hamas regarding a cease-fire in Gaza and the release of Israeli hostages was announced on Wednesday, the meeting of Israel's security cabinet, to vote on the deal, has been delayed.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, accused Hamas of holding up the deal in "a last-minute blackmail attempt." Hamas denied the accusation, claiming it had agreed to the deal, and adding that the agreement met all the group's conditions.
The Spin
Pro-establishment narrative
Though there are some last-minute issues that still need to be ironed out, the deal has been agreed upon and the hostages are coming home. Reports that the deal have collapsed are overblown, and the remaining gaps will be resolved before the cease-fire comes into effect on Sunday. The US is proud of its role in mediating an end to this tragic conflict.
Pro-Israel narrative
Yet again, Hamas is using dirty tricks to delay and manipulate the process of negotiations. Though these issues can be solved, Israel will stand firm on its commitments and rejects Hamas' last-minute extortion attempts.
Pro-Palestine narrative
As always, Netanyahu is stalling so that he can play politics. It has been quite clear over the last year that the only reason Netanyahu hasn't accepted a deal is because he fears his government will collapse if Smotrich and Ben-Gvir resign. Indeed, Netanyahu would rather continue Israel's genocide in Gaza than risk his political future.
