The Israeli cabinet is set to approve a landmark ceasefire deal with the Palestinian militant group Hamas, marking a potential turning point in the prolonged Gaza conflict. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office announced early Friday that agreements had been reached for a truce and the release of hostages held by Hamas.
The security cabinet will meet later on Friday, followed by a full cabinet session to formalize the deal. The ceasefire is tentatively scheduled to begin on Sunday, though delays remain possible pending final government approval.
Key Highlights of the Ceasefire Deal:
- A six-week ceasefire period with a gradual withdrawal of Israeli forces.
- The release of 33 hostages in the first phase, with hundreds of Palestinian prisoners detained in Israel freed in exchange.
- Humanitarian aid will surge into Gaza, addressing critical shortages of food, medicine, and shelter for displaced residents.
International Reactions:
U.S. officials, including Secretary of State Antony Blinken, played a pivotal role in mediating the deal, alongside Qatari and Egyptian negotiators. White House spokesperson John Kirby expressed optimism that the agreement would proceed as planned.
President Joe Biden emphasized the importance of addressing Palestinian concerns for lasting peace in the region.
On the Ground:
Gaza residents, initially hopeful about the truce, were left grieving as intense airstrikes followed the announcement of the ceasefire. At least 86 people were killed in Gaza on Thursday alone, according to Palestinian authorities.
In Israel, public opinion remains divided. Protests erupted in Jerusalem, with demonstrators opposing the deal, arguing it falls short of eradicating Hamas.
Historical Context:
The conflict escalated after Hamas-led gunmen launched a deadly attack on Israeli communities near the Gaza border on October 7, 2023, resulting in over 1,200 deaths and the abduction of more than 250 hostages.
If successfully implemented, the ceasefire will pause a conflict that has devastated Gaza, claiming over 46,000 lives and displacing the majority of its 2.3 million residents, according to local authorities.
