Israel’s government officially approved a ceasefire agreement with Hamas, the Palestinian militant group, on Friday. This decision paves the way for the cessation of hostilities in Gaza within 24 hours and the release of Israeli hostages in Gaza within 72 hours. The Israeli cabinet endorsed the agreement early Friday morning, approximately a day after mediators disclosed a deal to free Israeli hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners. This marks the initial phase of U.S. President Donald Trump’s efforts to end the two-year conflict in Gaza.
According to a statement from Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu’s official English-language account, the government has granted approval for the release of all hostages, both living and deceased. The prolonged war has deepened Israel’s global isolation and triggered a regional conflict involving Iran, Yemen, and Lebanon. The strained relationship between the U.S. and Israel was also tested, with President Trump urging Netanyahu to expedite the deal.
Following the announcement of the ceasefire, both Israelis and Palestinians expressed joy, viewing it as a significant stride towards ending the two-year conflict that resulted in the death of over 67,000 Palestinians, as reported by Gaza officials, and the recovery of the last hostages held by Hamas since the conflict began.
In Gaza’s Deir al-Balah, the absence of drone sounds was replaced by the sound of car horns as people engaged in conversations while moving freely. Mahmoud Abdullah cautiously welcomed the agreement, questioning whether the era of bombings, drones, displacements, and hunger was finally over.
Hamas’s leader in Gaza, Khalil Al-Hayya, stated that they had received assurances from the U.S. and other mediators that the war had concluded. The ceasefire is set to take effect within 24 hours of government approval, with the release of hostages expected within 72 hours.
The agreement also includes provisions for the cessation of hostilities, partial Israeli withdrawal from Gaza, and the release of all remaining hostages by Hamas in exchange for several hundred Palestinian prisoners held by Israel. While the deal aims to restore peace, uncertainties remain, such as the finalization of the list of Palestinian prisoners to be released.
The accord, if fully executed, would bring the conflicting parties closer to a resolution than previous attempts. It includes provisions for the influx of food and medical aid to Gaza to assist civilians affected by the destruction caused by the conflict. Despite these positive steps, challenges persist, including the governance of Gaza post-conflict and Hamas’s stance on disarmament.
Trump’s comprehensive 20-point plan outlines further steps to be discussed, including the governance of Gaza post-conflict and the fate of Hamas. The agreement stipulates the establishment of a transitional government comprising qualified Palestinians and international experts to oversee day-to-day operations in the territory, with Hamas excluded from any form of involvement. The oversight committee, named the “Board of Peace,” headed by Trump and including former U.K. Prime Minister Tony Blair, would be responsible for ensuring the agreement’s compliance.
The process of Israeli troop withdrawal from Gaza remains a critical issue. Trump’s ceasefire plan initially included a rough withdrawal map, later updated to a detailed plan outlining the IDF’s withdrawal following the release of hostages. The withdrawal line suggests that the IDF would maintain a presence in key areas, partially encircling Gaza City.
The conflict in Gaza, ignited by Hamas-led militants’ incursion into Israeli territories in 2023, resulted in substantial casualties on both sides. The ceasefire agreement signifies a significant milestone in resolving the conflict and fostering peace in the region.