In a significant move towards de-escalation, the Israeli government officially approved a ceasefire agreement on Saturday aimed at securing the release of hostages held in the Gaza Strip. After a lengthy meeting involving all cabinet members, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office announced the decision, marking a potential turning point in the 15-month-old conflict.
According to Israeli media reports, the cabinet vote concluded with 24 ministers in favor of the deal and eight opposing 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.
Despite the forthcoming ceasefire, violence continues to grip the region. Medics in Gaza reported that an Israeli air strike 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 brings 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 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.\" McGurk noted that the ceasefire is expected to start on Sunday morning, with three female hostages scheduled to be released to Israel on Sunday afternoon through the Red Cross.
The ceasefire agreement encompasses an initial six-week phase that includes hostage-for-prisoner exchanges. This phase could pave the way for ending the prolonged conflict. Under the deal, thirty-three Israeli hostages—including women, children, and men over 50—are 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.
The international community watches closely as this agreement holds the potential to bring much-needed relief to both Israelis and Palestinians affected by the conflict. The successful implementation of the ceasefire could herald a new chapter of peace and stability in the region.
(With input from Reuters)
(Cover image: 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
