Israel’s Security Cabinet Advances Gaza Ceasefire and Hostage Release Deal
Israel’s security cabinet has recommended approving a ceasefire and hostage release agreement for Gaza, with a final cabinet decision expected later today, according to a statement from Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office.
The full cabinet is set to meet at 3:30 p.m. (1330 GMT) to finalize the agreement. Netanyahu confirmed that the ceasefire, if approved, would commence on Sunday, with the first hostages being released the same day.
The ceasefire aims to halt weeks of fighting between Israeli forces and Hamas that has devastated much of Gaza, claimed over 46,000 lives, and displaced the majority of its 2.3 million residents, according to local reports. The truce could also de-escalate broader regional tensions involving Iran, Hezbollah in Lebanon, Yemen’s Houthis, and armed groups in Iraq and the West Bank.
Current Situation in Gaza
Despite the agreement announcement, Israeli airstrikes continued on Friday, with heavy bombardments reported. Gaza’s Civil Emergency Service reported at least 101 Palestinian casualties, including 58 women and children, since the deal was revealed.
Details of the Deal
Under the initial six-week phase of the agreement, Hamas will release 33 Israeli hostages, prioritizing women, children, and men over 50. In exchange, Israel will release Palestinian detainees, including women and minors. The total number of Palestinian prisoners to be freed could range from 990 to 1,650, based on the number of hostages released.
Hamas stated that obstacles in the agreement had been resolved, paving the way for implementation. Netanyahu’s office reiterated the plan’s timeline, noting that final approval was contingent on today’s cabinet meeting.
Challenges and Opposition
The proposed deal has faced criticism from hardliners within Netanyahu’s coalition. National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir and Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich have voiced opposition, with Ben-Gvir threatening to resign if the deal proceeds. However, a majority of ministers are expected to support the agreement.
Humanitarian and Regional Implications
The deal also includes a provision for increased humanitarian aid to Gaza, where most residents face dire conditions. The World Health Organization (WHO) announced plans to scale up daily aid deliveries to around 600 trucks, a significant increase from the current average of 51 trucks per day.
The agreement was mediated by Qatar, Egypt, and the United States, aiming to establish conditions for a gradual withdrawal of Israeli troops from Gaza and address humanitarian needs.
Hostage Families and Global Reactions
As of now, 98 hostages remain in Gaza, with Israeli authorities informing families about the first 33 individuals set for release. Advocacy groups have urged Netanyahu to act swiftly to ensure the agreement’s implementation.
Meanwhile, U.S. President Joe Biden emphasized the importance of addressing Palestinian concerns while supporting efforts to resolve the crisis.
