Israel’s Security Cabinet Approves Gaza Ceasefire and Hostage Release Deal
The Israeli security cabinet has approved a ceasefire and hostage release deal, which is expected to take effect this weekend. The agreement, brokered by Qatar, the United States, and Egypt, aims to halt the fighting and bombardment in Gaza’s deadliest-ever war.
Deal Details
The deal includes the release of hostages held in Gaza since Hamas’s October 7, 2023 attack on Israel, which resulted in the deaths of 1,210 people, mostly civilians. The hostages, including women, children, and elderly people, will be released in phases over the next several weeks.
Under the deal, Israeli forces will withdraw from Gaza’s densely populated areas, allowing displaced Palestinians to return to their residences. The Israeli authorities assume that 33 hostages are alive, but Hamas has yet to confirm this.
Implementation
The deal’s implementation is expected to begin on Sunday, with the release of three Israeli women soldiers, who may in fact be civilians. The women will be received by Red Cross staff and taken to Egypt for medical examinations before being returned to Israel.
Israel is expected to release the first group of Palestinian prisoners, including several with high sentences, in the coming weeks.
Reactions
The ceasefire agreement has been welcomed by many, including US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, who said he was "confident" that the deal would go ahead as scheduled.
In Gaza, displaced Palestinians are preparing to return home, with many expressing relief and joy at the prospect of peace.
Challenges Ahead
Despite the agreement, aid workers warn of a monumental task ahead, as nearly all of Gaza’s 2.4 million people have been displaced at least once. "Everything has been destroyed, children are on the streets, you can’t pinpoint just one priority," said Amande Bazerolle, coordinator for Doctors Without Borders (MSF).
Conclusion
The ceasefire and hostage release deal marks a significant step towards ending the war in Gaza. While challenges remain, the deal offers hope for a brighter future for the people of Gaza and Israel.
FAQs
Q: When is the ceasefire expected to take effect?
A: The ceasefire is expected to take effect this weekend.
Q: How many hostages will be released under the deal?
A: The deal includes the release of 33 hostages, including women, children, and elderly people.
Q: Will the Israeli authorities confirm the status of the hostages?
A: The Israeli authorities assume that 33 hostages are alive, but Hamas has yet to confirm this.
Q: What is the expected timeline for the deal’s implementation?
A: The deal’s implementation is expected to begin on Sunday, with the release of three Israeli women soldiers, and the release of Palestinian prisoners in the coming weeks.