Israel’s security Cabinet recommends approval of ceasefire in Gaza; awaits full Cabinet’s decision

Israel's security Cabinet approves ceasefire deal with Hamas, releasing hostages and potentially starting Sunday, despite coalition resistance.

Israel’s security Cabinet recommended approval on Friday (January 17, 2025) of a ceasefire deal after Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirmed an agreement had been reached that would pause the 15-month war with Hamas in Gaza and release dozens of hostages held by militants there.

Mediators Qatar and the U.S. announced the ceasefire on Wednesday (January 15, 2025), but the deal hung in limbo for more than a day as Mr. Netanyahu insisted there were last-minute snags he blamed on Hamas.

The militants maintained they were “committed” to the deal, while residents of Gaza and families of the hostages anxiously waited to see if it would materialise.

The deal now goes to the full Cabinet of Ministers for final sign-off. It is expected to “OK” the ceasefire, which could start as soon as Sunday (January 19, 2025), even though it has drawn fierce resistance from Mr. Netanyahu’s far-right coalition partners. However, their objections could destabilise his government.

Hamas triggered the war with its October 7, 2023, cross-border attack into Israel that killed some 1,200 people and left some 250 others captive.

Israel responded with a devastating offensive that has killed over 46,000 Palestinians, according to local health officials, who do not distinguish between civilians and militants but say women and children make up more than half of those killed.

Beyond the death and destruction in Gaza, the conflict has also destabilised the Middle East and sparked worldwide protests.