The Israeli government has officially approved a landmark ceasefire agreement with Gaza, aimed at securing the release of hostages held in the enclave. Following a lengthy meeting on Saturday involving all cabinet members, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office announced the decision, marking a significant step towards ending the ongoing conflict.
According to reports from Israeli media, 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,” Netanyahu’s office stated.
Despite the forthcoming ceasefire, tensions remain high. Medics in Gaza reported that an Israeli air strike early on Saturday resulted in the deaths of three individuals sheltering 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 implementation of the ceasefire. Speaking from the White House, McGurk 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 White House expects the ceasefire to commence on Sunday morning, with three female hostages slated for release to Israel on Sunday afternoon through the Red Cross.
Under the terms of the deal, the ceasefire begins with an initial six-week phase that includes hostage-for-prisoner exchanges. This phase is seen as a potential gateway to ending the 15-month-old war that has deeply affected both Israelis and Palestinians.
During this initial phase, thirty-three Israeli hostages—comprising women, children, and men over the age of 50—are expected to be freed. In reciprocation, Israel will release all Palestinian women and children under 19 who are currently detained in Israeli jails by the end of this phase.
(With input from Reuters)
(Cover: 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
