Israel ratifies ceasefire agreement with Hamas, prisoner exchange on Sunday

(Patria) - Israel's security cabinet has ratified the ceasefire agreement with Hamas, which provides for the exchange of hostages for Palestinian prisoners and a temporary suspension of the 15-month war for an initial six weeks.

The approval followed an unexpected delay that raised fears that disagreements between Israel and Hamas could jeopardize the agreement. Far-right members of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's coalition government also threatened to undermine months of efforts to end the conflict.

The agreement now goes for final approval by the full cabinet so it can be implemented on Sunday, when the release of the first hostages and prisoners is scheduled. Israel's High Court still needs to consider complaints against certain elements of the agreement, but it is not expected to intervene.

In the first phase of the agreement, which is expected to last 42 days, Hamas has agreed to release 33 hostages, including children, women – among them soldiers – and people over 50 years old. In return, Israel would release 50 Palestinian prisoners for each Israeli female soldier released by Hamas, and 30 for other women among the hostages.

This agreement represents a significant step towards ending the conflict, which has resulted in a large number of casualties and displaced persons in the Gaza Strip. The international community welcomes this development and expresses hope that it will lead to lasting peace in the region.