In a significant move toward de-escalation, the Israeli government officially approved a ceasefire agreement on Saturday, aiming to secure the release of hostages held in the Gaza Strip. After a prolonged meeting involving all cabinet members, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office announced the decision, marking a potential turning point in the 15-month-old conflict.
The cabinet’s vote reflected a strong majority in favor of the agreement, with 24 ministers supporting and eight opposing the deal. “The Government has approved the framework for the return of the hostages. The framework for the hostages’ release will come into effect on Sunday,” Netanyahu’s office stated, signaling hope for families awaiting the return of their loved ones.
Despite the upcoming ceasefire, tensions remain high. Medics in Gaza reported that an Israeli airstrike early on Saturday resulted in the deaths of three people in the Mawasi area west of Khan Younis in southern Gaza. This incident brings the total number of Palestinians killed by Israeli strikes since the ceasefire pact was announced on Wednesday to 119, underscoring the urgency for peace.
Lead U.S. negotiator Brett McGurk conveyed optimism about the ceasefire’s implementation. Speaking from the White House, he told CNN, “We have locked down every single detail in this agreement. We are quite confident… it is ready to be implemented on Sunday.” The ceasefire is expected to begin on Sunday morning, with three female hostages scheduled to be released to Israel that afternoon through the Red Cross.
The agreement outlines an initial six-week phase that includes hostage-for-prisoner exchanges. This phase could pave the way toward ending the prolonged conflict. Thirty-three Israeli hostages, including women, children, and men over 50, are due to be freed. In reciprocation, Israel will release all Palestinian women and children under 19 detained in Israeli jails by the end of the first phase.
The ceasefire deal represents a critical opportunity for both sides to step back from ongoing hostilities and work toward a lasting peace. As the initial exchanges begin, the international community watches closely, hopeful that this agreement will lead to a cessation of violence and a return to stability in the region.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
