Live Update: Israeli Security Cabinet Approves Gaza Ceasefire Deal; Full Cabinet Vote Pending
A key development in the ongoing conflict between Israel and Gaza took place on Friday as Israel’s security cabinet approved a long-awaited ceasefire agreement, which now heads to the full cabinet for final approval. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office announced that the release of hostages held in Gaza is expected to begin on Sunday, January 19. The ceasefire is also slated to begin on the same day.
Key Highlights:
- Ceasefire and Hostage Deal Clears Security Cabinet: Prime Minister Netanyahu confirmed that a deal to return hostages from Gaza has been reached, clearing the way for a ceasefire. The agreement now requires approval from Israel’s full cabinet, expected later today.
- US Confirmation: US Secretary of State Antony Blinken expressed confidence that the ceasefire will be implemented starting Sunday.
- Controversy Within Israel’s Cabinet: Far-right National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir threatened to resign along with his party colleagues if the deal is approved, citing concerns over the Gaza ceasefire and the release of prisoners.
Prisoner Release Measures:
The Israel Prison Service has been preparing for the release of Palestinian prisoners as part of the deal. Security measures are in place to prevent any public celebrations upon their release, especially in areas like Ashkelon. Special units will handle the transportation of prisoners, in contrast to the usual involvement of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC).
Gaza Conflict Toll:
The health ministry in Gaza reported a grim rise in casualties, with 88 more deaths in the past 24 hours, bringing the total death toll to 46,876. Over 110,000 individuals have been injured since the war began in October 2023.
International Reactions:
- UK Lawmakers Warn of Risks to Ceasefire: British lawmakers are urging Israel to reconsider its planned ban on the UN’s Palestinian refugee agency (UNRWA), which could jeopardize the fragile ceasefire.
- EU Readiness to Aid Gaza: The European Union expressed readiness to restart its monitoring mission at the Rafah border crossing, provided agreement from all involved parties, including Israel and Egypt.
Regional Developments:
The United Arab Emirates is positioning itself for the post-war period, preparing to play a key role in Gaza’s reconstruction after the conflict ends. Meanwhile, technical talks involving Egypt, Qatar, the US, and Israel are ongoing in Cairo to finalize mechanisms for the ceasefire implementation.
Hostage Release:
Among those expected to be released are two French-Israeli citizens, Ofer Kalderon and Ohad Yahalomi, confirmed by French President Emmanuel Macron.
Next Steps:
The Israeli cabinet is expected to vote on the ceasefire deal at 3:30 PM local time (1330 GMT). If approved, the deal will go into effect with the release of hostages and the ceasefire beginning Sunday, January 19.
Stay tuned for live updates as the situation continues to evolve.
