Israel’s Cabinet has approved an outline of a U.S.-backed ceasefire deal aimed at ending the Gaza conflict. The plan focuses on freeing hostages, though details on other disputed points remain unclear.
A fragile truce has begun in Gaza, halting more than two years of fighting between Israel and Hamas. U.S. officials warn, however, that deep mistrust on both sides could still derail the agreement.
Palestinian health officials reported 30 deaths in Gaza after Israeli strikes, just before the truce began. The Israeli military said it targeted a Hamas cell that posed an “immediate threat” near its troops.
US President Donald Trump’s son-in-law Jared Kushner and U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff credited Netanyahu’s wartime decisions with pressuring Hamas into a truce. Kushner said the Israeli leader did a “great job in negotiations” and stood firm throughout talks.
Hamas negotiator Khalil al-Hayya said the group received assurances from the U.S. and mediators on the ceasefire’s first phase. He declared the deal marks a full end to the war in Gaza.
Since October 2023, Israel’s war on Gaza has killed over 67,000 people and injured nearly 170,000, with many still trapped under rubble. In Israel, 1,139 were killed in the October 7 attacks and around 200 taken hostage.
Prime Minister Netanyahu said Donald Trump should be honoured with the Nobel Peace Prize after brokering the Gaza ceasefire and hostage deal. He had already submitted a nomination letter to the White House in July.
U.S President Donald Trump announced plans to travel to the Middle East on Sunday following the Gaza ceasefire and hostage release deal. He said he hopes to witness the hostages’ return early next week.