The Israeli government officially approved a ceasefire agreement on Saturday, aiming to secure the release of hostages held in the Gaza Strip. Following a lengthy meeting of all cabinet members, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office made the announcement, marking a potential turning point in the longstanding conflict.
According to Israeli media reports, the decision saw 24 ministers voting 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,\" stated a release from Netanyahu's office.
Despite the impending ceasefire, tensions remained high. 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 brings the number of Palestinians killed by Israeli strikes to 119 since the ceasefire pact was announced on Wednesday.
Ceasefire to Commence on Sunday
Lead U.S. negotiator Brett McGurk expressed confidence in 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.\" He added that the ceasefire is expected to start on Sunday morning, with three female hostages to be released to Israel on Sunday afternoon through the Red Cross.
The deal outlines an initial six-week phase, including hostage-for-prisoner exchanges, which could pave the way toward ending the 15-month-old war. In this phase, thirty-three Israeli hostages, including women, children, and men over 50, are due to be freed. In exchange, Israel will release all Palestinian women and children under 19 detained in Israeli jails by the end of the first phase.
A Step Towards Peace
The approval of the ceasefire agreement signifies a significant move towards de-escalation in the region. The hostage exchanges and cessation of hostilities may open avenues for further negotiations and a more lasting peace between the parties involved.
(With input from Reuters)
Cover image: Israeli Government Press Office shows Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu (6-L) heading a security cabinet meeting to vote on a Gaza ceasefire, in Jerusalem on January 17, 2025. /CFP
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
