Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced on Friday that negotiators have officially signed an agreement for a ceasefire and the release of hostages held in Gaza, facilitating peace between Israel and Hamas. The decision was finalized in Doha. Prime Minister Netanyahu stated that he will convene a meeting with his security cabinet, aiming for government approval of the ceasefire agreement. This initiative seeks to stop the ongoing battle in Gaza and secure the freedom of numerous Israeli hostages.
According to Times of Israel, Netanyahu’s office released a statement declaring, "Israel is committed to achieving all war objectives, including the return of all hostages, both living and deceased."
In his statement, Netanyahu conveyed that he has instructed a special task force to be prepared to receive the returning hostages from Gaza, with families being informed of the progress in negotiations. Amidst ongoing discussions on Thursday, Israeli airstrikes in the war-torn Gaza claimed the lives of approximately 72 individuals.
The ceasefire proposal met strong opposition from Netanyahu’s right-wing coalition partners, upon whom his political leadership heavily relies. On Thursday, Israel’s National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir threatened to exit the government should the ceasefire gain approval. However, there was no immediate statement from Ben-Gvir following Netanyahu’s pronouncement regarding the truce.
The Prime Minister of Israel confirmed the accord with Hamas, bringing an end to the 15-month-long conflict in Gaza. This warfare has continually captivated the global stage, with protests igniting across different regions.
The hostilities took a violent turn on October 7, 2023, when Hamas launched a surprise attack on Israel, causing roughly 1,200 casualties and capturing approximately 250 hostages. In retaliation, Israel unleashed significant military operations, resulting in over 46,000 Palestinian civilian deaths, as stated by local health authorities. More than half of those losing their lives to Israeli counter-attacks were women and children.
