Israel’s Cabinet Approves Gaza Ceasefire Agreement
The Israeli government has approved a new ceasefire agreement with Hamas, scheduled to take effect on Sunday, alongside a prisoner exchange deal.
This decision came after lengthy negotiations lasting several hours until late in the evening. Two far-right ministers opposed the agreement.
The Israeli Security and War Council had earlier endorsed the agreement, describing it as a step towards “achieving the war objectives,” according to a statement from Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office.
The announcement was made hours after both the Israeli Prime Minister’s Office and Hamas confirmed the finalization of the agreement details, brokered by Qatar, the United States, and Egypt.
Key Terms of the Agreement
- Prisoner Exchange:
- Hamas will release 33 Israeli hostages held in Gaza for 15 months.
- Israel will, in turn, release hundreds of Palestinian prisoners.
- Troop Movements:
- Israeli forces will withdraw from densely populated civilian areas in Gaza.
- Displaced Palestinians will be allowed to return to their homes.
- Humanitarian aid will be permitted to flow into Gaza daily without restriction.
- Future Negotiations:
- Phase two will focus on the release of remaining prisoners, full withdrawal of Israeli troops, and restoring stability.
- The third and final phase will involve the reconstruction of Gaza, which could take years.
Qatar confirmed that the first phase of released hostages would include women, children, the elderly, and those with critical health conditions.
Background on the Conflict
The ceasefire follows an unprecedented attack by Hamas on October 7, 2023, which left 1,200 Israelis dead and 251 kidnapped. In response, Israel launched widespread airstrikes targeting Gaza, resulting in over 46,870 deaths, according to Gaza’s Hamas-run Ministry of Health. The strikes have displaced the majority of Gaza’s 2.3 million residents, leaving behind severe humanitarian challenges.
International Perspective
The agreement has been a key focus for U.S. President Joe Biden, who has faced criticism over his foreign and domestic policies. Discussions around a similar deal had been ongoing since May 2024, with both parties blaming each other for delays in negotiations.
