The “last-minute crisis” that held up the Israel-Hamas cease-fire and hostage deal on Thursday has been resolved, with the proposal expected to go into effect on Sunday, officials said.
The breakthrough 42-day peace deal was hanging on a wire Thursday morning after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu delayed a security cabinet vote amid government infighting and Hamas’ alleged “last-minute blackmail attempt.”
Aryeh Deri, the chairman of the Shas party in Knesset, said the issues have been dealt with as Netanyahu puts on the final touches with his cabinet for parliament to approve.
“A few minutes ago I received a final announcement that all obstacles have been overcome and the deal is underway,” Deri said in a statement, according to a Times of Israel translation.
“Now they are busy with the final technical wording. I want to congratulate Prime Minister Netanyahu, he is responsible for the agreement.”
