Ceasefire Agreement Between Israel and Hamas Set to Begin on Sunday Amidst Renewed Hopes for Peace
A ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, approved by the Israeli government late Friday, is scheduled to take effect on Sunday at 7:30 AM Spanish time. This crucial announcement was made by Majed al Ansari, spokesperson for the Qatari Ministry of Foreign Affairs, on his X account early Saturday morning. The ceasefire aims to provide a temporary halt to Israeli attacks on the Gaza Strip, which have wreaked havoc since the outbreak of conflict on October 7, 2023.
In light of the highly anticipated truce, Al Ansari urged residents to remain cautious and await further instructions from official channels. His statements signify a crucial moment for the Gazan populace, whom he described as enduring one of the most challenging periods in recent history.
According to reports from Israeli media, including Haaretz, the ceasefire agreement was approved after intensive negotiations, with the Israeli Security Cabinet voting in favor of the truce. Out of the total ministers, 24 approved the agreement while eight opposed it, including ministers from the Security and Finance sectors as well as two from Prime Minister Netanyahu's Likud party.
The agreement highlights the contentious conditions for the ceasefire, involving a significant exchange of hostages. It stipulates the transfer of 33 Israeli hostages currently held by Hamas in exchange for 735 Palestinians languishing in Israeli prisons. The focus of this agreement is on the release of children, women, and elderly individuals in both populations, reflecting the humanitarian concerns paramount in the ongoing conflict.
As the deadline for the ceasefire approaches, the international community watches closely, hopeful for a sustained period of peace that could lead to further negotiations and potential resolutions to the crisis. The humanitarian situation in Gaza remains dire, with calls for increased aid and protection for civilians overwhelmed by violence. The coming hours will be critical as both sides prepare for the ceasefire, with citizens eager for a reprieve from the relentless conflict.
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