Israel’s cabinet has approved a deal with Hamas for a ceasefire and the release of hostages in Gaza. The agreement is set to begin on Sunday, marking a potential end to the 15-month-long conflict in the region.
The deal was ratified after a six-hour meeting of Israel’s government on Saturday. According to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office, the framework for the hostages’ return will be activated on Sunday.
Despite the agreement, Israeli airstrikes have continued in Gaza. Israeli warplanes targeted the Zeitoun neighborhood in Gaza City, and tanks shelled eastern areas. Medics in Gaza reported five deaths from an airstrike in the Mawasi area. Since the ceasefire deal announcement on Wednesday, 123 Palestinians have been killed.
Hostage Release and Ceasefire Plan
The deal includes a three-stage ceasefire. In the first phase, hostages held by Hamas will be exchanged for Palestinian detainees in Israeli jails. U.S. negotiator Brett McGurk confirmed the plan was moving forward and was on track for implementation.
The ceasefire is set to take effect at 0630 GMT on Sunday, with the first release of three female hostages expected in the afternoon. The hostages will be transferred through the Red Cross to Israel.
Ongoing Tensions and Violence
Despite the ceasefire deal, tensions remain high. Sirens were heard in Jerusalem and Tel Aviv on Saturday, and a missile fired from Yemen was intercepted by Israeli forces. No casualties were reported from the missile attack.