As the clock ticks towards a much-anticipated ceasefire in Gaza, concerns are mounting over the potential consequences of Israel’s intensified airstrikes. The Palestinian Islamic Jihad has issued a stark warning that these attacks could result in the deaths of captives, whose release is slated to begin once the truce takes effect.
The Al-Quds Brigades, the military arm of the Islamic Jihad movement, has directly appealed to the families of the captives, urging them to pressure Israel to halt the bombings. They emphasized that “the fate of the captives now lies solely in the hands of the Israeli army,” adding, “The intensity of Israeli bombing may leave families receiving their loved ones in coffins.”
Set to commence at 8:30 a.m. local time (1:30 a.m.ET) on Sunday, the ceasefire agreement, brokered in Qatar, marks a meaningful step towards de-escalation. The first phase of the deal will see 33 Israeli captives exchanged for over 730 Palestinian prisoners. According to U.S. officials, three female Israeli captives are expected to be freed on the first day alone.
However, the truce is not without its complexities.The initial phase, lasting 42 days, will leave 65 captives still in Gaza, some of whom are presumed dead. Negotiations for their release are scheduled to begin by the 16th day of the ceasefire. The families of the captives have already voiced their concerns, calling on Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin netanyahu to act swiftly. In a statement released on Saturday, they declared, “We urgently call for swift arrangements to ensure all phases of the deal are implemented, and emphasize that negotiations for the next phases must begin before day 16.”
A few hours until the ceasefire takes effect. Israel is still relentlessly bombarding Gaza.
People hear express mutual fear that Israel may violate it or that any of its politicians might renege on it.
But everyone is jubilant, with a sense of ecstasy and delirium unfolding.
— Abubaker Abed (@AbubakerAbedW) January 18,2025
Despite the imminent ceasefire,reports from the ground paint a grim picture. Hours before the truce was set to begin, Israeli forces were still carrying out relentless airstrikes on Gaza. According to Gaza’s Civil Defense, these attacks have claimed at least 122 lives and injured 270 others as the deal was announced.
This ceasefire aims to end a devastating 15-month-long Israeli military campaign that has inflicted unimaginable suffering on the besieged Palestinian territory. However, skepticism remains high, especially given Netanyahu’s history of violating past truces. Observers warn that his actions could jeopardize the fragile agreement, leaving the fate of both captives and civilians hanging in the balance.
