The Israeli government officially approved a ceasefire agreement on Saturday, aiming to secure the release of hostages held in the Gaza Strip. After a lengthy meeting of all cabinet members, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office announced the decision that could pave the way toward ending 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 on Sunday morning and includes an initial six-week phase featuring hostage-for-prisoner exchanges. Lead U.S. negotiator Brett McGurk expressed confidence in the agreement's implementation. \"We have locked down every single detail in this agreement. We are quite confident… it is ready to be implemented on Sunday,\" McGurk told CNN from the White House.
Under the deal, thirty-three Israeli hostages, including women, children, and men over 50, are due to be freed. In return, Israel will release all Palestinian women and children under 19 detained in Israeli jails by the end of the first phase.
Despite the announcement of the ceasefire pact on Wednesday, Israeli air strikes have continued. Medics in Gaza reported that an Israeli air strike early on Saturday killed three people in a tent in the Mawasi area west of Khan Younis in the enclave's south. This incident brings the number of Palestinians killed by Israeli strikes since the announcement to 119.
The ceasefire agreement brings hope to many who have been affected by the prolonged conflict. Families await the return of loved ones, and there is cautious optimism that this could mark a significant step toward lasting peace in the region.
(With input from Reuters)
Cover photo: Israeli Government Press Office shows Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu heading a security cabinet meeting to vote on a Gaza ceasefire, in Jerusalem on January 17, 2025. /CFP
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
