Israeli Cabinet Expected to Approve Gaza Cease-Fire and Prisoner Exchange Deal on Today

Israel’s Security Cabinet is anticipated to convene on Tuesday (Today) to approve a cease-fire agreement in Gaza and a prisoner exchange deal with Hamas, according to reports from the Israeli Public Broadcasting Authority, Kan. The agreement is seen as a critical step toward de-escalating the ongoing conflict in the region.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is reportedly focused on securing support from Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, who has voiced strong opposition to the deal. However, the likelihood of a government collapse is considered minimal, as Netanyahu commands a solid majority within his coalition.

Despite objections from Smotrich and National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir—who has criticized the deal as a “disaster”—a “broad majority” of coalition members appear ready to back the agreement. Netanyahu has reportedly offered concessions on West Bank settlement construction to ensure Smotrich’s continued support.

Israeli Channel 12 suggested that the Security Cabinet meeting might occur on Tuesday afternoon, followed by a full government session to finalize the agreement. Parties such as Likud, Shas, United Torah Judaism, and the National Unity Party are expected to support the deal, while the Otzma Yehudit and Religious Zionism parties remain opposed.

Smotrich’s party has announced its opposition but has not threatened to withdraw from the coalition, easing fears of political instability.

The agreement, mediated by Qatar, Egypt, and the United States, reportedly involves a cease-fire in Gaza and the exchange of prisoners. Hamas is believed to be holding 99 Israeli captives, while over 10,300 Palestinian prisoners remain in Israeli custody. Reports indicate that numerous Israeli captives have been killed during recent airstrikes in Gaza.

While Hamas has not officially commented on the reports, unnamed Israeli sources claim that the deal’s details have been finalized and are awaiting Hamas’s response.

The negotiations have faced repeated interruptions due to additional conditions imposed by Netanyahu. Critics, including the Israeli opposition and families of captives, have accused the prime minister of hindering efforts to reach an agreement.

The ongoing conflict in Gaza has resulted in significant casualties, with reports indicating nearly 46,600 deaths, predominantly women and children, since October 2023. The International Criminal Court and the International Court of Justice have initiated legal actions against Israeli officials for alleged war crimes and genocide in Gaza.

The proposed agreement offers a glimmer of hope for peace amid a deeply entrenched and devastating conflict. However, its success will depend on the willingness of all parties to compromise and uphold their commitments.