Israel’s security cabinet has approved a ceasefire and hostage deal with Hamas. The deal, which was announced on Wednesday evening, has raised hopes that the war could finally come to an end by Sunday.
Despite the optimism, Israeli airstrikes in Gaza continued overnight on Friday, resulting in the deaths of 113 Palestinians, according to the Hamas-run civil defense agency.
Israel’s security cabinet convened early on Friday morning to discuss the deal with the Israeli team that negotiated the terms in Qatar.
The cabinet’s approval was a crucial step towards implementing the deal, which involves the exchange of 33 Israeli hostages held in Gaza for up to 1,000 Palestinian prisoners in Israeli jails.
As part of the preparations for the hostages’ release, several Israeli hospitals have been making arrangements to welcome them.
At the Ichilov Medical Center in Tel Aviv, a private ward has been prepared, complete with a special menu and amenities to ensure the hostages’ comfort and privacy. The hospital plans to receive the hostages by helicopter.
Similarly, Sheba Hospital has been making arrangements to provide support to the hostages, including a team of specialists, fresh clothes, and toiletries.
According to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office, the implementation of the deal could begin as early as Sunday, subject to security cabinet and government approval.
The first phase of the deal will last for 42 days and will involve a ceasefire, the exchange of hostages and prisoners, and a drawdown of Israeli troops in Gaza, as well as a surge in humanitarian aid.
