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In The News

Why did Israel finally agree to a ceasefire?

Jan 18, 2025
Mark Weiss, an Israeli journalist with deep insights into the Israel-Hamas conflict, discusses the recently agreed ceasefire after 15 months of violence. He highlights the precarious nature of the deal, with 70% public support but skepticism about its effectiveness. The emotional toll on families awaiting the release of hostages adds a poignant dimension. Weiss also examines Prime Minister Netanyahu's motivations for agreeing to this deal now, amid complex political dynamics and the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
19:22

Episode guests

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • The ceasefire agreement allows for a temporary pause in hostilities, focusing on humanitarian aid for displaced Palestinians and hostage releases.
  • Political implications of the ceasefire create tensions within Israel, as public support contrasts with far-right demands for continued military action against Hamas.

Deep dives

Ceasefire Agreement and Hostage Release

A ceasefire agreement has been reached between Israel and Hamas, aimed at ending the ongoing conflict and facilitating the release of hostages taken by Hamas on October 7th, 2023. The deal involves a three-stage process, commencing with the withdrawal of Israeli troops from Gaza’s main population centers, allowing the return of over a million displaced Palestinians. In parallel, Hamas will stagger the release of 33 Israeli hostages, which includes both living and deceased individuals, over a six-week timeframe. This initial stage is crucial, as the families of the hostages experience immense anxiety, fearing that the collapse of the ceasefire could leave their loved ones stuck in Gaza permanently.

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