Neelam Rahim | neelam@radioislam.co.za

3-minute read
16 January 2025 | 17:24 CAT

Palestinians celebrate the announcement of a ceasefire deal between Hamas and Israel in Deir al-Balah, central Gaza Strip, Wednesday, Jan. 15, 2025. However, doubts persist regarding Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu’s intentions, as he has delayed the ceasefire vote, raising concerns about his commitment to lasting peace. (AP Photo/Abdel Kareem Hana)

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has delayed the cabinet vote on a ceasefire deal, raising questions about his sincerity in ending hostilities in Gaza. The agreement, initially set to take effect on Sunday, January 19, has sparked both anticipation and scepticism.

Professor Dr. Mohamed Elmasry, a Computer Engineering expert at the University of Waterloo, shared his analysis with Radio Islam International, expressing serious doubts. “Netanyahu has a history of breaking promises,” Dr. Elmasry remarked. “After over a year of genocide in Gaza, his declaration of victory is far from credible.”

The ceasefire, according to Dr. Elmasry, comes after Netanyahu failed to achieve his stated goals: eliminating Hamas and securing the release of hostages. “Both objectives have not been fulfilled. History proves that such oppressive regimes ultimately collapse, just as apartheid in South Africa and colonial rule in Algeria and Vietnam ended in failure for the occupiers.”

The agreement reportedly includes phased withdrawals of Israeli forces from Gaza, the release of Palestinian detainees, and Hamas’s release of hostages in stages. However, details remain unconfirmed, and public trust is waning. Dr. Elmasry emphasized the importance of holding Israel accountable for the extensive destruction in Gaza. “Rebuilding Gaza will cost billions, and Israel should bear that cost—not Gulf nations or others.”

Netanyahu’s political future also hangs in the balance. Dr Elmasry suggested the prime minister’s career is nearing its end. “Netanyahu might retreat to the U.S., where his son studies, but only if Israeli authorities allow him to leave given the criminal charges he faces.”

Speculation abounds regarding the timing of the ceasefire. Analysts suggest pressure from figures like former U.S. President Donald Trump, potentially linked to Saudi-Israeli normalization efforts. Meanwhile, reverse immigration from Israel and growing global calls for war crime accountability have added internal pressure.

Dr. Elmasry underscored the necessity of unity among Arab and Muslim nations to resist normalization. “Palestine is a land for all its people. It is imperative to ensure freedom, dignity, and equality for everyone who calls it home..”

As the region awaits further developments, the plight of Gaza continues to draw prayers and support for peace and justice worldwide.

Listen to the full interview on The Daily Round Up with Moulana Habib Bobat and Professor Dr Mohamed Elmasry here.