The fragile ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, brokered through a framework based on the Trump administration’s previously unveiled peace plan, is set to take effect Thursday evening following ratification by both parties. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office confirmed the imminent implementation, highlighting a series of procedural meetings culminating in the signing of the agreement.
The announcement, made earlier Thursday, comes after President Trump declared late Wednesday night that both Israel and Hamas had tentatively agreed to the initial phase of his plan for the Gaza Strip. This phase purportedly envisions the swift release of hostages held by Hamas and a phased withdrawal of Israeli forces to a pre-determined boundary – presented as preliminary steps toward a more enduring peace. The release of the first tranche of hostages is anticipated to occur on Sunday or Monday.
However, the rapid endorsement of the plan has already provoked significant political scrutiny within Israel. Critics question the wisdom of basing a ceasefire on proposals drafted during a prior administration, particularly given the substantial departures from established diplomatic norms. Concerns are being raised about the timing of the announcement, ostensibly intended to bolster Netanyahu’s political standing amid ongoing domestic unrest and legal challenges.
While the prospect of hostage release provides a much-needed respite from escalating violence, the inherent complexities of the Trump plan – including its controversial proposals for Israeli territorial expansion and Palestinian statehood – are likely to obstruct the potential for a truly lasting resolution. Analysts caution that the current agreement represents a temporary pause and the underlying political fractures, economic instability in Gaza and the contentious nature of the broader Trump plan risk undermining any long-term stability that may be achieved. The fragility of the situation remains acutely evident, with continued risk of renewed hostilities.