The Israeli government has officially approved a ceasefire agreement with Hamas, bringing a temporary halt to the 15-month conflict that has ravaged the Gaza Strip. The ceasefire is set to take effect on Sunday, January 19th.
Under the terms of the agreement, Israeli forces will withdraw from the Gaza Strip, and both sides will engage in a phased exchange of hostages over a six-week period. The deal was finalized after last-minute hurdles and accusations that Hamas was attempting to renegotiate aspects of the agreement.
READ: Israel’s Security Cabinet Approves Gaza Ceasefire, Hostage Release Deal
“The government has approved the outline for the return of the abductees,” the Israeli government announced in a statement. “The outline for the release of the abductees will come into effect on Sunday, January 19, 2025.”
Hamas has confirmed that it has no further objections to the deal, paving the way for its implementation. Three hostages held in Gaza are expected to be released on the first day.
Despite the ceasefire agreement, concerns remain about the potential for renewed violence. Hamas leader Khalil al-Haya recently issued threats of another attack similar to the one that initiated the war on October 7th, 2023, when Hamas militants killed hundreds of civilians and took numerous hostages.
Israel is set to release 95 Palestinian prisoners on Sunday as the first step in the hostage exchange. Currently, 98 hostages remain in Hamas captivity in Gaza, including seven Americans.
READ: Trump Lauds Historic Ceasefire Deal Between Israel And Hamas, Hostage Releases Expected
The ceasefire agreement was reached through diplomatic efforts in Doha, Qatar, with the involvement of international mediators.
The incoming U.S. administration has pledged to work closely with Israel and its allies to ensure that Gaza does not become a terrorist safe-haven again.
The Palestinian Ministry of Health has reported over 46,000 deaths in Gaza since the war began. However, Israel disputes this figure, claiming that the majority of casualties were Hamas terrorists.
The ceasefire offers a glimmer of hope for a de-escalation of violence and a potential path toward a more lasting resolution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. However, challenges and concerns remain, and the situation in the region continues to be volatile.
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