In a significant diplomatic breakthrough, Israel’s Cabinet has approved a ceasefire agreement that will lead to the release of dozens of hostages held by Hamas and temporarily halt the 15-month-long conflict in Gaza. The decision, made in the early hours of Saturday, signals a crucial step toward de-escalation in what has been one of the deadliest and most destructive confrontations between the two sides.
Historic Vote Amid High Tensions
The approval came just after 1 a.m. Jerusalem time, extending well into the Jewish Sabbath—an unusual occurrence that underscores the gravity of the situation. Under Jewish law, government proceedings typically pause for the Sabbath, except in cases of emergency. The extended meeting highlights the high stakes involved in the ceasefire deal.
Brokered by Qatar and the U.S.
The ceasefire agreement, brokered by Qatar and the United States, had been in limbo for more than a day as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu raised last-minute concerns, attributing delays to complications caused by Hamas. However, on Friday, Israel’s security Cabinet recommended proceeding with the deal, leading to its final approval by the full government.
Key Aspects of the Ceasefire Deal
The truce, set to go into effect on Sunday, will roll out in two phases. The first phase, spanning six weeks, will see the release of 33 hostages—comprising women, children, elderly men, and individuals requiring medical attention. Hamas has committed to freeing three female captives on the first day, four more by the seventh day, and the remaining 26 over the subsequent five weeks.
In exchange, Israel will release Palestinian detainees. A list of 700 individuals—primarily young people and women—has been published by Israel’s Justice Ministry. Their release, expected to commence no earlier than 4 p.m. local time on Sunday, will be overseen by Israel’s Prison Services rather than the International Committee of the Red Cross, a move aimed at curbing public celebrations.
Gaza to Receive Much-Needed Humanitarian Aid
The ceasefire will allow an influx of humanitarian aid into Gaza, a region devastated by months of relentless fighting. Aid trucks have already lined up on the Egyptian side of the Rafah border crossing, ready to deliver essential supplies. Negotiations are also underway between Israeli military and intelligence representatives and Egyptian officials regarding the reopening of this critical border crossing.
Troop Withdrawal and Restrictions
As part of the agreement, Israeli forces will pull back from several areas in Gaza, enabling hundreds of thousands of displaced Palestinians to return to what remains of their homes. However, Israel has emphasized that certain areas, particularly those close to the Israel-Gaza border, will remain restricted. Any perceived threats to Israeli troops in these regions will be met with a “forceful response.”
Ceasefire Faces Uncertainties
While the ceasefire marks a crucial step toward peace, lingering questions remain. The second phase of the truce, expected to involve the release of male soldiers and additional hostages, will require further negotiations. Hamas has insisted that it will not release the remaining captives without a permanent ceasefire and a full Israeli withdrawal—conditions Israel has firmly rejected. Netanyahu has reiterated that Israel’s military campaign will not end until Hamas is dismantled and long-term security measures are in place.
Background: A Conflict That Shook the Region
The war erupted on October 7, 2023, when Hamas launched a cross-border attack into Israel, killing approximately 1,200 people and taking around 250 hostages. Israel’s response was swift and devastating, leading to an offensive that has claimed over 46,000 Palestinian lives, according to local health officials. The toll includes a significant number of women and children.
Fighting intensified up until the ceasefire’s approval, with Gaza’s Health Ministry reporting 88 fatalities in the last 24 hours alone. Historically, both sides have escalated military operations in the final hours before a ceasefire as a show of strength.
Political Fallout in Israel
The ceasefire has sparked intense political debate within Israel. Hardline national security minister Itamar Ben-Gvir has voiced strong opposition to the agreement, threatening to withdraw from Netanyahu’s government. While his departure would not immediately collapse the ruling coalition or derail the ceasefire, it could destabilize Netanyahu’s leadership at a precarious time.
Uncertain Future for Gaza
Beyond the immediate ceasefire, broader questions loom about Gaza’s future. Key issues include governance, long-term security arrangements, and the daunting task of reconstruction. With international attention focused on the region, diplomatic efforts are expected to continue in an attempt to forge a sustainable resolution to the conflict.
Global Reactions and Regional Impact
The war has ignited worldwide protests and heightened tensions across the Middle East. The ceasefire deal, while a step forward, remains fragile, with both sides facing intense pressure domestically and internationally. As the world watches, the coming weeks will be critical in determining whether this truce can lead to lasting peace or if hostilities will once again flare up.
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