Israel Approves U.S.-Brokered Gaza Ceasefire Plan, Paving Way for Hostage Release and Aid
In a significant diplomatic breakthrough, Israel’s cabinet approved on Friday the first phase of a 20-point Gaza peace initiative proposed by President Donald Trump. The move sets the stage for a temporary suspension of hostilities and the release of Israeli hostages still held in Gaza.
Under the terms of the agreement, a ceasefire is expected to take effect within 24 hours of the cabinet’s decision. The plan also mandates the release of all remaining Israeli hostages within 72 hours, a key demand that has drawn international attention.
The agreement includes further provisions for Israeli troop withdrawals from certain areas of Gaza and a significant increase in the delivery of humanitarian aid. The United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) has confirmed that sufficient food stocks are available to support the population for three months, easing immediate concerns over a humanitarian catastrophe.
The deal has been met with approval from several international leaders, who have endorsed the agreement as a critical step toward de-escalation. However, the situation remains fragile. In a stark reminder of the ongoing tensions, overnight strikes in Gaza resulted in at least four fatalities, underscoring the complex and volatile environment in which the ceasefire will be implemented.
