In a significant move towards de-escalation, the Israeli government officially approved a ceasefire agreement on Saturday, aiming to secure the release of hostages held in the Gaza Strip. After a lengthy meeting, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office announced the decision, marking a hopeful turn in the prolonged conflict.
The cabinet vote reflected a strong majority, with 24 ministers in favor and eight opposed to the deal. \"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, signaling a new phase of cautious optimism.
However, the violence persisted even as the ceasefire loomed. 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. This incident brought the number of Palestinians killed by Israeli strikes since the ceasefire pact was announced on Wednesday to 119, underscoring the urgency of implementing the agreement.
Lead U.S. negotiator Brett McGurk expressed confidence in the forthcoming 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.\" According to McGurk, the ceasefire is expected to start on Sunday morning, with three female hostages scheduled for release to Israel through the Red Cross that afternoon.
The ceasefire agreement initiates a six-week phase involving hostage-for-prisoner exchanges, potentially paving the way towards ending the 15-month-old war. In this initial phase, thirty-three Israeli hostages—including women, children, and men over 50—are set to be freed. In return, Israel will release all Palestinian women and children under 19 detained in Israeli jails.
The international community watches closely as this development unfolds, hopeful that it may lead to lasting peace in the region. The ongoing conflict has had profound impacts on both sides, and the release of hostages represents a significant step towards reconciliation.
(With input from Reuters)
Cover image: Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu heads a security cabinet meeting to vote on a Gaza ceasefire in Jerusalem on January 17, 2025. /CFP
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
