Israel’s security cabinet has recommended the approval of a Gaza ceasefire deal, paving the way for a broader government vote to finalize the agreement.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has expressed optimism, stating that the first hostages could be released as early as Sunday if the deal is approved.
The ceasefire deal, which was announced on Wednesday, has faced hurdles but remains on track for implementation.
If finalized, the agreement could mark a critical step toward de-escalating the ongoing conflict, which began after Hamas attacked Israel on October 7, 2023. That attack resulted in the deaths of about 1,200 people and saw 251 hostages taken back to Gaza.
Despite the pending ceasefire, violence continues to claim lives. Israeli airstrikes have reportedly killed 113 Palestinians since the ceasefire deal was announced, according to Gaza’s civil defense agency.
Since the start of the conflict, the Hamas-run health ministry reports that over 46,000 Palestinians have been killed during Israel’s offensive on Gaza.
Follow us on:
