Fragile cease-fire in Gaza is back on track after hourslong delay in 2nd hostage-for-prisoner swap
Associated PressJUL 2023
Israel, Hamas Agree to 2-Day Ceasefire Extension
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The Spin
Pro-Israel narrative
While freeing hostages is of the utmost importance, Israel must not succumb to unfair international pressure. Hamas has a history of forcing uneven deals, and the Israeli war cabinet made the right decision by weighing its options before accepting this temporary pause. It should remain clear, however, that Israel's ultimate goal is to eliminate Hamas from the Gaza Strip, and Jerusalem will continue to work toward this end even if that necessitates a resumption of conflict.
Pro-Palestine narrative
Israel Defense Forces have inflicted disproportionate damage on the civilians of Gaza as opposed to on Hamas itself, and further assaults could lead to the deaths of many more. Israel has made a wise choice to bring its citizens home immediately through this temporary ceasefire, which should be extended. This will also see much-needed aid reach Gaza, where an utter humanitarian cataclysm has unfolded.