JERUSALEM – Israel’s cabinet convened on Friday to finalize a ceasefire agreement for Gaza, marking a pivotal moment in the region’s history. The decision follows earlier approval by the security cabinet and comes as both nations face unprecedented destruction and loss of life in what has been the most devastating conflict in Gaza’s history.
The ceasefire, brokered through intense negotiations led by Qatar, the United States, and Egypt, is set to go into effect this weekend. It aims to halt hostilities, allow for humanitarian aid, and initiate a process for the release of captives held since the October 2023 Hamas attack on Israel.
Agreement Details
The terms include a phased release of prisoners. On Sunday, 95 Palestinians – including 10 children, 16 men, and 69 women – are expected to be freed from Israeli prisons, pending government approval. Additionally, three Israeli women soldiers held captive by Hamas are expected to be released as part of the initial exchange.
The Israel Prison Service has imposed strict guidelines to avoid “public displays of joy” during the release of Palestinian detainees, emphasizing sensitivity amidst ongoing tensions.
Impact of Ongoing Violence
Despite the announcement, violence has continued to claim lives. In the past 24 hours alone, Israeli forces have targeted over 50 sites in Gaza, killing more than 100 Palestinians and injuring hundreds, according to local reports. Hamas’s military wing, the Ezzedine al-Qassam Brigades, has warned that Israeli strikes threaten the safety of captives and could turn their release into tragedy.
Humanitarian and Political Challenges
Gaza faces monumental rebuilding challenges, with over 46,800 Palestinians killed and nearly the entire population displaced, according to UN estimates. The ceasefire is seen as a step toward stability, but aid workers caution about the long road to recovery.
Displaced Gazans are eager to return home. “I will go to kiss my land,” said Nasr al-Gharabli, who fled to a camp in southern Gaza. “If I die on my land, it would be better than being here as a displaced person.”
International Response
U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken expressed optimism about the truce, saying, “I am confident, and I fully expect implementation will begin on Sunday.”
Former U.S. President Donald Trump claimed credit for his team’s role in the negotiations alongside the Biden administration. “If we weren’t involved, the deal would’ve never happened,” Trump said in an interview on Thursday.
Future Implications
The ceasefire agreement, described as a historic breakthrough, is expected to lead to further discussions at the United Nations Security Council for a binding resolution. Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas confirmed that the Palestinian Authority is prepared to assume governance in Gaza post-conflict.
As the truce is set to take effect, hope and uncertainty remain. With both nations grappling with profound loss, this agreement could signify the first step toward a fragile peace.
