The Israeli government has given the green light to a significant ceasefire and hostage agreement with Hamas. As per a report by Times of Israel, the deal which received cabinet approval by a 24-8 vote on early Saturday is likely to take effect on Sunday. This agreement marks a major move toward de-escalating the ongoing conflict in Gaza, facilitating the release of both Israeli hostages and Palestinian detainees.
Despite the approval, the deal has been welcomed globally. Those who are against the agreement are anticipated to challenge the decision in Israel’s High Court of Justice, especially regarding the release of the Palestinian prisoners. However, legal experts believe the court is unlikely to stop the agreement. The security cabinet earlier supported the deal on Friday and suggested the government go ahead with its implementation.
In the initial phase of the agreement, families of 33 hostages are expected to be freed as per Israeli authorities. However, the real condition of these individuals is not sure. Israel is expecting a detailed status report seven days into the ceasefire. The order of the hostage release is still to be decided, with identities likely to be revealed 24 hours before each one of them will be released.
After the initial release, 65 more hostages are expected to stay back in Gaza, including the bodies of 36 confirmed casualties. In the upcoming weeks, negotiations will focus on the release of the remaining captives, ending the war, and planning for Gaza’s reconstruction.
The ceasefire agreement has been finalized after months of devastating conflict, which escalated after a major Hamas assault on October 7, 2023. More than 1,200 lives were lost in the attack which resulted in the capture of more than 250 hostages, as per reports. In response, Israel launched a large-scale military campaign in Gaza leading to major destruction and significant numbers of casualties. According to Gaza’s health ministry data, the death toll has surpassed 45,000, in which women and children hold a major ratio of the victims.
The deal was agreed through negotiations mediated by the US and Qatar. While it is considered to be a major turning point, domestic opposition is concerned over the fate of the remaining hostages.
(With inputs from ANI)