In a significant move toward de-escalation, the Israeli government officially approved a ceasefire agreement aimed at securing the release of hostages held in the Gaza Strip. After a prolonged cabinet meeting on Saturday, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office confirmed the decision, marking a potential turning point in the 15-month-old conflict.
The approval saw a majority of 24 ministers voting in favor, with eight opposing 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,\" Netanyahu's office announced, signaling the commencement of the ceasefire and exchange process.
Despite the impending ceasefire, tensions remain high. 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 number of Palestinians killed since the ceasefire pact was announced on Wednesday to 119.
Lead U.S. negotiator Brett McGurk expressed confidence in the agreement's implementation. Speaking from the White House, he stated, \"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 begin on Sunday morning, with three female hostages slated for release to Israel on Sunday afternoon via the Red Cross.
The ceasefire deal initiates with an initial six-week phase that includes hostage-for-prisoner exchanges, potentially paving the way for an end to the prolonged conflict. During this phase, 33 Israeli hostages—including women, children, and men over the age of 50—are scheduled to be freed. In return, Israel will release all Palestinian women and youths under 19 detained in Israeli jails by the end of the first phase.
This development offers a glimmer of hope for families on both sides yearning for the return of their loved ones and a cessation of hostilities. The international community watches closely as the ceasefire's implementation could signify a crucial step toward lasting peace in the region.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
