In a significant move toward de-escalation, the Israeli government officially approved a ceasefire agreement on Saturday aimed at securing the release of hostages held in the Gaza Strip. Following an extensive meeting of all cabinet members, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office announced the decision that could pave the way for peace after a protracted conflict.
According to Israeli media reports, the agreement saw strong support within the cabinet, with 24 ministers voting in favor and eight opposing. \"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 the Prime Minister's office, highlighting the urgency and significance of the deal.
However, tensions remain high. Medics in Gaza reported that an Israeli airstrike early on Saturday resulted in the deaths of 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 pact was announced on Wednesday.
Lead U.S. negotiator Brett McGurk expressed optimism about the implementation of the ceasefire. 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.\" The ceasefire is expected to begin on Sunday morning, with three female hostages scheduled to be released to Israel in the afternoon through the Red Cross.
The deal outlines an initial six-week phase that includes hostage-for-prisoner exchanges, potentially opening the way to ending the 15-month-old war. During this phase, thirty-three Israeli hostages—including women, children, and men over 50—are set to be freed. In reciprocation, Israel will release all Palestinian women and children under 19 detained in Israeli jails by the end of the first phase.
This development marks a hopeful turn in a conflict that has deeply affected communities on both sides. Observers from around the world are watching closely, with cautious optimism that this ceasefire could lead to a lasting peace and stability in the region.
(With input from Reuters)
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
