The Israeli government has officially approved a ceasefire agreement aimed at securing the release of hostages held in the Gaza Strip. Following an extensive cabinet meeting late on Saturday, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office announced that the deal will come into effect on Sunday.
According to statements from Netanyahu's office, \"The Government has approved the framework for the return of the hostages. The framework for the hostages' release will come into effect on Sunday.\"
The cabinet's decision saw 24 ministers voting in favor of the deal, while eight opposed it, as reported by Israeli media outlets.
Ongoing Strikes Despite Ceasefire Announcement
Despite the upcoming ceasefire, tensions remain 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 incident brings the total number of Palestinians killed by Israeli strikes to 119 since the ceasefire pact was announced on Wednesday.
U.S. Confirms Ceasefire Details
Lead U.S. negotiator Brett McGurk stated that the White House expects the ceasefire to commence on Sunday morning. \"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.
He confirmed that three female hostages are scheduled to be released to Israel on Sunday afternoon through the Red Cross.
Details of the Ceasefire Agreement
Under the terms of the deal, the ceasefire will begin with an initial six-week phase that includes hostage-for-prisoner exchanges. This phase could potentially pave the way to ending the 15-month-old war.
During 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.
Looking Ahead
The approval of the ceasefire agreement marks a significant step toward de-escalation in the region. Observers hope that this development will lead to sustained peace and a resolution to the ongoing conflict.
(With input from Reuters)
Cover Photo: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu heads a security cabinet meeting to vote on a Gaza ceasefire, in Jerusalem on January 17, 2025. (Photo: CFP)
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
