• Senator Tom Cotton condemns the ceasefire deal, advocating for Hamas's unconditional surrender instead.
• Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu delays the vote on the ceasefire agreement, citing concerns over hostages and prisoner exchanges.
• Amid negotiations, President Biden and President-elect Trump attempt to claim credit for the ceasefire initiative.
• The proposed deal would see the release of 33 hostages and a six-week ceasefire as negotiators seek a lasting peace.
• Questions remain regarding the specific Palestinian prisoners to be released and their potential exile locations.

Senator **Tom Cotton** (R-Ark.) has publicly criticized the ceasefire and hostage release agreement tentatively established between **Israel** and **Hamas**. He suggested that the only acceptable outcome should be the **unconditional surrender** of Hamas, alongside the total return of hostages. Cotton expressed his disagreement with President Biden’s approach during his statement on the social platform X, questioning why “lame duck Joe Biden” would endeavor to impose a flawed deal upon Israel. Cotton's provocative comments arose prior to the full details of the agreement being made public, as both President Biden and President-elect Trump rushed to take credit for the negotiations. Cotton noted, “The only ‘deal’ should be unconditional surrender by Hamas—which is already nearly destroyed—and the return of ALL hostages.” On the other hand, Israeli Prime Minister **Benjamin Netanyahu** has thrown a wrench into the celebrations surrounding the ceasefire. He has postponed a vote in Israel's security cabinet regarding the acceptance of the deal, primarily contesting Hamas's demands related to Palestinian prisoners. A senior Biden administration official confirmed that Israel has agreed to the release of certain prisoners, though specifics remain murky as mediators from the U.S., Egypt, and Qatar meet in Doha to negotiate the implementation details, including humanitarian considerations and the precise hostages due for release. Questions linger concerning the geographical placements and potential exile of the Palestinian prisoners set for release. Netanyahu's hesitance draws attention to the delicate nature of the ceasefire agreement. Within the proposed framework, the initial phase would involve a six-week pause in hostilities, during which **Hamas** is expected to release 33 hostages, including two Americans. Netanyahu's office has stated they will not proceed with any vote until **Hamas** agrees to all terms of the deal. Trump has also made assertive statements, claiming credit for the deal and referring to it as “EPIC.” At the same time, he emphasized the urgency of securing the hostages' release, threatening significant repercussions if the terms are not met. Amid this backdrop, Biden's administration asserts it will extend the ceasefire beyond six weeks if negotiations necessitate more time. While this dialogue unfolds, the complexities of mutual trust remain as **Hamas** and Israel grapple with potential violations and accusations throughout the ceasefire period. The planned transfer of humanitarian aid into the Gaza Strip is anticipated to provide some relief to nearly two million Palestinians affected by the ongoing conflict. As discussions continue, the reality of the situation remains fraught with uncertainty. Questions arise regarding the continued loyalty to a ceasefire, should accusations of violations emerge. Observations reveal that the path to a resolution involves deep divisions between the involved parties, ultimately highlighting the broader implications for regional stability. Overall, as the situation develops, the potential for lasting peace hinges on both sides navigating this challenging and fraught diplomatic landscape. For further details, visit the original articles from [The Hill](https://thehill.com/homenews/senate/5089098-tom-cotton-joe-biden-gaza-israel-ceasefire-hostage-agreeement/) and [The Hill](https://thehill.com/policy/international/5089650-netanyahu-delays-ceasefire-deal/).