In a significant move toward ending the prolonged conflict, the Israeli government officially approved a ceasefire agreement on Saturday aimed at securing the release of hostages held in the Gaza Strip. Following a lengthy meeting of all cabinet members, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office announced the decision, marking a potential turning point in the 15-month-old war.
According to Israeli media, 24 ministers voted in favor of the deal, while eight opposed it. “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. The ceasefire is set to commence with an initial six-week phase that includes hostage-for-prisoner exchanges.
Lead U.S. negotiator Brett McGurk expressed confidence in the agreement’s implementation. Speaking to CNN from the White House, McGurk said, “We have locked down every single detail in this agreement. We are quite confident… it is ready to be implemented on Sunday.” The White House expects the ceasefire to start on Sunday morning, with three female hostages to be released to Israel on Sunday afternoon through the Red Cross.
Under the terms of the deal, thirty-three Israeli hostages, including women, children, and men over 50, are due to be freed in this phase. In return, Israel will release all Palestinian women and children under 19 detained in Israeli jails by the end of the first phase. This exchange could pave the way for broader negotiations and a potential end to hostilities.
Despite the announcement of the ceasefire pact on Wednesday, Israeli airstrikes have continued in the Gaza Strip. Medics in Gaza reported that an Israeli airstrike early on Saturday killed three people in a tent in the Mawasi area west of Khan Younis in the south. This incident brings the number of Palestinians killed by Israeli strikes since the ceasefire pact announcement to 119.
The international community watches closely as the ceasefire’s implementation approaches. The agreement holds the promise of alleviating tensions and opening dialogue between the parties involved. As the initial phase begins, there is cautious optimism that this could mark a step toward lasting peace in the region.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
