In a significant move towards ending a prolonged conflict, the Israeli government officially approved a ceasefire agreement on Saturday aimed at securing the release of hostages held in the Gaza Strip. The decision came after a lengthy meeting of all cabinet members, as announced by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office.
According to Israeli media reports, the vote saw 24 ministers 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 Netanyahu's office.
Continued Strikes Despite Ceasefire Announcement
Despite the ceasefire pact announced on Wednesday, Israeli airstrikes 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 southern part of the enclave. This incident brought the total number of Palestinians killed by Israeli strikes to 119 since the ceasefire agreement was declared.
Details of the Ceasefire Agreement
The ceasefire is set to commence with an initial six-week phase that includes hostage-for-prisoner exchanges, potentially paving the way to end the 15-month-old war. Thirty-three Israeli hostages, including women, children, and men over 50, are due to be freed during 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.
International Involvement and Expectations
Lead U.S. negotiator Brett McGurk stated that 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. \"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.
The involvement of international mediators highlights the global interest in resolving the conflict, which has had widespread implications for regional stability and humanitarian concerns.
Looking Ahead
The approval of the ceasefire deal by the Israeli cabinet marks a hopeful step towards de-escalation in the region. The implementation of the agreement is anticipated to bring relief to affected communities and may serve as a foundation for lasting peace after years of turmoil.
As the ceasefire is set to begin, all eyes are on the region to see if both parties will adhere to the agreement and move towards a peaceful resolution.
(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
