Israel's security Cabinet has approved a ceasefire deal with Hamas, which could begin as early as Sunday. The deal includes the phased release of Israeli hostages held by Hamas in exchange for Palestinian prisoners. The agreement faces strong opposition from Netanyahu's far-right coalition partners, who could destabilize his government. The deal also involves a gradual withdrawal of Israeli forces from certain areas in Gaza, allowing for the return of hundreds of thousands of Palestinians.
Hamas initiated the ongoing conflict with its October 7, 2023, cross-border attack on Israel , resulting in the deaths of approximately 1,200 Israel is and the captivity of around 250 others. Israel responded with a forceful offensive that has claimed the lives of over 46,000 Palestinians, according to local health officials. The Israel i Cabinet, convened unusually late into the Jewish Sabbath, recommended approval of a ceasefire deal, which could commence as early as Sunday.
This agreement, however, has faced staunch opposition from Netanyahu's far-right coalition partners, whose dissent could potentially destabilize his government.The deal, brokered under mounting pressure from both the Biden administration and President-elect Donald Trump, calls for the phased release of Israeli hostages held by Hamas. 33 hostages are slated for immediate release within the next six weeks in exchange for 95 Palestinian prisoners held by Israel. The initial phase of prisoner release will commence no earlier than Sunday afternoon, with a focus on younger individuals and women. Israel also plans a gradual withdrawal of its forces from certain areas in Gaza, allowing hundreds of thousands of Palestinians to return. However, Israeli military officials have stipulated that residents will be prohibited from returning to areas where troops remain stationed or near the Israel-Gaza border. Any perceived threats to Israeli forces will be met with a robust response. The fate of the remaining hostages, including male soldiers, remains uncertain and will be negotiated during the initial phase. Hamas has asserted its unwillingness to release these captives without a permanent ceasefire and complete Israeli withdrawal, while Israel has vowed to continue its fight until Hamas is dismantled and maintains indefinite security control over the territory. Egyptian officials have confirmed that an Israeli delegation is in Cairo to discuss the reopening of the Rafah crossing, a vital transportation link between Gaza and Egypt. This potential reopening signifies a crucial step towards easing humanitarian restrictions within Gaza
Hamas Israel Ceasefire Hostages Gaza Netanyahu Israeli Government Palestinian Prisoners Rafah Crossing
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