Israeli Cabinet Approves Ceasefire to Secure Release of Hostages in Gaza
Israel anticipates exchange of hostages and detainees starting Sunday
The Israeli government has officially approved a ceasefire agreement aimed at securing the release of hostages held in the Gaza Strip. After an extensive cabinet meeting on Saturday, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office announced the decision, marking a significant step toward easing tensions in the region.
According to Israeli media reports, the agreement saw substantial 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 Netanyahu's office.
Despite the impending ceasefire, hostilities have continued. 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 since the ceasefire pact was announced on Wednesday to 119.
Lead U.S. negotiator Brett McGurk expressed optimism about the ceasefire's implementation. 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.\" He confirmed that the ceasefire is expected to start on Sunday morning, with three female hostages set to be released to Israel on Sunday afternoon through the Red Cross.
Under the terms of the deal, the ceasefire commences 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 period, thirty-three Israeli hostages—including women, children, and men over 50—are scheduled 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 is closely watching the developments, hoping that this ceasefire will lead to lasting peace in the region. The exchange of hostages and detainees is seen as a critical step toward rebuilding trust and negotiations between the parties involved.
(With input from Reuters)
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
