Jerusalem, January 17, 2025 – The Israeli government officially approved a ceasefire agreement on Saturday, aimed at securing the release of hostages held in the Gaza Strip. Following a lengthy meeting of all cabinet members, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office announced the decision that could mark a significant step toward ending the 15-month-old conflict.
According to Israeli media, the cabinet vote saw 24 ministers in favor of the deal and eight opposed. \"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.
Hostage and Prisoner Exchange
Under the agreement, an initial six-week phase will involve hostage-for-prisoner exchanges. Thirty-three Israeli hostages, including women, children, and men over 50, are due to be freed. In return, Israel will release all Palestinian women and children under 19 detained in Israeli jails by the end of this phase.
Lead U.S. negotiator Brett McGurk indicated that the ceasefire is expected to start 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. Three female hostages are expected to be released to Israel on Sunday afternoon through the Red Cross.
Continued Strikes Despite Agreement
Despite the impending ceasefire, 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 number of Palestinians killed by Israeli strikes to 119 since the ceasefire pact was announced on Wednesday.
The ongoing hostilities underscore the fragile nature of the agreement and the urgency for both sides to adhere to the ceasefire terms to prevent further loss of life.
Path Toward Peace
The approval of the ceasefire deal marks a potential turning point in the prolonged conflict. The initial six-week phase could open the way to ending the 15-month-old war, offering hope for stability in the region. International observers and mediators, including the United States, play a crucial role in facilitating dialogue between the parties.
The coming days will be critical in determining the effectiveness of the ceasefire and the prospects for lasting peace.
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
