Israel’s security cabinet has approved a ceasefire agreement with Hamas, setting the stage for the release of hostages from Gaza and a temporary halt to fighting after 15 months of war.
The deal, still requiring full cabinet approval, follows mediation efforts by Qatar, Egypt, and the United States. It aims to de-escalate tensions that have expanded across the Middle East, drawing in groups like Hezbollah, the Houthis, and Iranian-backed forces.
Ceasefire details
Under the six-week first phase of the agreement:
- Hamas will release 33 Israeli hostages, including women (both soldiers and civilians), children, and men over 50.
- Israel will free Palestinian prisoners, including all women and minors under 19. The total released could range from 990 to 1,650 individuals, based on the hostage exchange ratio.
- Israel’s Justice Ministry has already listed 95 Palestinian prisoners to be freed in Sunday’s first exchange.
Despite these developments, fighting continues. On Friday, Israeli airstrikes persisted in Gaza, killing at least 116 people, including 60 women and children, according to Palestinian officials.
Political fallout
The deal faces resistance from far-right members of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s coalition:
- National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir threatened to resign but later confirmed he would not bring down the government.
- Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich warned he would leave the coalition if Israel did not resume military action after the first ceasefire phase.
Netanyahu’s office, however, confirmed the negotiating team had finalised terms, saying:
“Agreements have been reached on a deal to release the hostages.”
Humanitarian struggles
The ceasefire agreement includes provisions for increased humanitarian aid in Gaza, where millions face hunger, displacement, and harsh conditions.
The World Health Organization expects up to 600 aid trucks per day to enter the enclave under the agreement.
With 98 hostages still held in Gaza—about half believed to be alive—families are pressing for swift implementation of the deal.
As Gaza's suffering continues and Israel's government remains divided, the world watches to see whether the ceasefire will hold—or if fighting will resume once again.
