Israel and Hamas have reportedly reached an agreement to pause hostilities for a four-day period in exchange for the release of 50 hostages currently held by the terrorist group. The cease-fire is expected to begin within the next 24 hours (Nov. 22-23) and see a dozen or more hostages released each day that the agreement holds. As part of the negotiations, Israel would also hand over up to 150 Palestinian prisoners. But why does Hamas really want a pause in fighting? And why are Hamas-supporting countries backing the deal?
A Cease-Fire – Not an End to War
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu made it plain that the coming halt was, indeed, temporary and that his intended eradication of Hamas would continue in due course. He said:
“I would like to make it clear here again: The war continues, the war will continue until we achieve all of our goals: to eliminate Hamas, to return…
