Israeli government approves ceasefire and hostage deal

In a significant diplomatic move, Israel's cabinet has sanctioned a ceasefire and hostage exchange agreement with Hamas, signaling a potential breakthrough in the prolonged conflict.

The accord, which envoys of Donald Trump helped facilitate, seeks the liberation of hostages by Hamas in return for Palestinian detainees held by Israel and intends to pave the way for reconstruction efforts in Gaza, as CBS News reports.

The agreement, passed by the full cabinet on Friday, followed prior approval from Israel's security cabinet. This deal outlines a detailed three-phase plan aimed at de-escalating 15 months of hostilities between Israel and Hamas. Tension has persisted since the Oct. 7, 2023 attack that resulted in hostages being taken to Gaza.

Initial phase of hostage exchange set to commence

The first phase is scheduled to start on Sunday, featuring a phased swap of hostages held by Hamas and Palestinian prisoners in Israeli jails. As per the agreement, Hamas will release a total of 33 women and child hostages, along with others over 50 years old, during the initial phase.

This process will see the release of three hostages by Hamas on the first day, and four more on the seventh day; every subsequent period of seven days will involve the release of three additional hostages. In parallel, for each female or child hostage released, Israel has committed to freeing 30 Palestinian women and children from its prisons.

Ceasefire to allow critical aid in Gaza

The ceasefire is expected to be upheld during the hostages' release, providing a critical window for international aid organizations and the United Nations to re-establish operations in Gaza. This will facilitate the much-needed reconstruction of essential infrastructure within the region. President Joe Biden mentioned that some Americans are among those expected to be freed during this initial phase.

The subsequent stages involve a broader release of Israeli male hostages and the withdrawal of Israeli Defense Forces from Gaza. The final phase includes the exchange of deceased hostages' and prisoners' bodies, as well as further reconstruction activities in Gaza.

Conflict leaves lasting impact on civilians

Over the course of the 15-month-long conflict, around 100 hostages have been held, with a significant portion reportedly deceased. Escalating hostilities have led to the deaths of more than 46,000 Palestinians in Gaza due to Israeli airstrikes, with residents of the besieged territory largely confined to refugee camps. The ongoing humanitarian crisis has posed severe challenges, with the prospect of famine looming large.

Despite the announcement of the deal, fatalities continued as Israeli aerial attacks claimed the lives of 113 Palestinians since Wednesday.

Families of hostages express mixed emotions

The decision has stirred emotions among hostages' families who gathered in Tel Aviv, advocating for the deal's full implementation. Huda Matrabie shared that alongside hope, a substantial degree of fear persists. "With this hope comes real fear," Matrabie asserted, highlighting the relentless anxiety and constant uncertainty gripping their lives.

For some families, the deal arrives tragically too late. Michel Illouz lamented, "This deal comes too late for my son Guy," emphasizing that securing the return of his son's remains for burial is now the family's priority. "We will not rest until every hostage is home," added Illouz, underscoring the unyielding commitment to reuniting with their loved ones, both alive and deceased.

Prospects and Challenges Ahead

Moving forward, the full realization of this phased agreement holds promise for a fragile peace and the potential renewal of Gaza's war-ravaged landscape. The endeavor remains fraught with challenges as both sides look to balance strategic interests with humanitarian needs.

The international community watches closely, with hopes that this agreement can lay the groundwork for sustained dialogue and a long-term resolution to this protracted conflict. While millions of lives hang in the balance, the implementation success of this deal could serve as a pivotal moment in this ongoing crisis.