Israel’s security cabinet has approved a ceasefire agreement that will end the recent hostilities in Gaza.
This decision follows the announcement on Friday by Qatar and the United States, who have been mediating between Israel and Hamas, that a deal had been reached.
A statement issued by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu‘s office stated that after considering all relevant factors, the security cabinet recommended that the Israeli government approve the ceasefire agreement.
“After examining all political, security, and humanitarian aspects and understanding that the proposed deal supports achieving the war objectives,” the statement read.
The statement affirmed that the agreement supports Israel’s war objectives and helps bring an end to the hostilities.
The full Israeli cabinet is scheduled to meet later on Friday to deliberate on the agreement further, the statement added.
Given the security cabinet’s recommendation, it is expected that the broader government body will also approve the deal, paving the way for its implementation.
Earlier, the Prime Minister’s Office indicated that Hamas would release the first hostages on Sunday if the deal receives final approval.
The agreement includes a six-week ceasefire, the staggered release of 33 hostages held by Hamas, and the release of hundreds of Palestinian detainees from Israeli custody. It also involves a partial Israeli military withdrawal and an increase in humanitarian aid to Gaza.
The deal seeks to halt the war that began on October 7, 2023, when a surprise attack by Hamas militants on southern Israel resulted in the deaths of approximately 1,200 people and the capture of around 250 individuals.
The subsequent Israeli military campaign has reportedly claimed the lives of over 46,000 Palestinians, predominantly women and children, according to Gaza’s health ministry.
The deal’s first phase will also initiate discussions aimed at achieving a lasting resolution to the conflict. However, opposition from far-right Israeli cabinet members has introduced some uncertainty, with one minister threatening to resign if the agreement proceeds.
Despite this, Israeli President Isaac Herzog has voiced support for the deal, describing it as the “right move.”
International actors, including US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, have expressed optimism, with the ceasefire expected to commence on Sunday.
