JERUSALEM — Israel’s security cabinet on Friday approved the Gaza cease-fire agreement that was achieved following mediation by Qatar and the United States. The decision comes two days after the deal was first disclosed by negotiators.
The office of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirmed the approval in a statement, noting that the cabinet had weighed the political, security, and humanitarian implications of the agreement. A final endorsement by Israel’s full cabinet is expected soon.
Under the terms of the cease-fire, which is set to take effect on Sunday, key provisions include the release of 33 Israeli hostages held by Hamas, the liberation of hundreds of Palestinian prisoners from Israeli custody, a partial withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza, and increased humanitarian aid deliveries to the region.
The agreement comes after 15 months of conflict that began with a Hamas attack on October 7, 2023. The violence has resulted in the deaths of more than 46,000 Palestinians and 1,200 Israelis.
While the cease-fire has been broadly welcomed by Israeli officials and the international community, it has faced opposition from some members of Israel’s right-wing coalition. Several have threatened to resign if the deal is fully implemented.
Meanwhile, demonstrations in support of the cease-fire and the release of hostages have taken place across Israel.
The cease-fire, seen as a critical first step toward a long-term resolution of the Gaza crisis, establishes a six-week period of calm to pave the way for negotiations. Observers hope this window will create an opportunity to address the underlying causes of the conflict and prevent future escalations.
