In a significant breakthrough, Israel's Cabinet approved a six-week ceasefire with Hamas on Saturday, January 18, 2025, aimed at halting the devastating 15-month conflict in Gaza. The truce, mediated by Qatar and the U.S., includes the release of 33 hostages by Hamas and hundreds of Palestinian prisoners by Israel.

The ceasefire, set to begin Sunday, marks the second pause in the war, providing a glimmer of hope in a conflict that has claimed over 46,000 Palestinian lives and 1,200 Israeli lives since its onset in October 2023. Israeli forces will gradually withdraw from certain areas in Gaza, enabling hundreds of thousands of Palestinians to return to their homes, albeit in devastated conditions.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced the deal on Friday, stating that families of the hostages were informed, and preparations are underway to receive them. Israel’s justice ministry released a list of 95 Palestinian prisoners to be freed, comprising women and younger detainees, who face charges ranging from vandalism to terrorism.

However, the deal faces opposition from within Israel's far-right coalition. National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir has threatened to resign, opposing the ceasefire as a sign of weakness.

While the truce offers temporary respite, unresolved issues loom large, including Hamas's insistence on a full Israeli withdrawal and Israel's pledge to dismantle the group. The eventual reconstruction and governance of Gaza also remain uncertain, leaving the long-term stability of the region in question.