The decision came after the Israeli Cabinet endorsed a ceasefire proposal introduced by U.S. President Donald Trump, which calls for an immediate halt to hostilities in Gaza and the release of all remaining hostages held by Hamas. This development represents a significant stride toward ending the devastating two-year-long conflict that has ravaged the region.

According to an official statement from Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office, the Cabinet has given its approval to the framework of the proposed deal. An Israeli government source further revealed that the ceasefire is expected to take effect almost immediately, with Israel’s military forces preparing to begin a phased withdrawal from Gaza within the next 24 hours.

While this breakthrough offers a glimmer of hope, major issues remain unresolved—particularly concerning Hamas’s potential disarmament and the future political control of the Gaza Strip. The war, which erupted following Hamas’s deadly incursion into Israel on October 7, 2023, has resulted in catastrophic losses. Data from Gaza’s Health Ministry estimates that around 67,000 Palestinians have been killed, and nearly 170,000 others have sustained injuries.

Beyond the staggering human toll, the fighting has displaced most of Gaza’s population, destroyed vast swaths of infrastructure, and provoked widespread international outrage. Israel has faced accusations of committing acts of genocide, charges it has vehemently denied. Around the world, large-scale demonstrations have erupted, demanding an end to the bloodshed and a lasting peace.

With this new ceasefire framework, both Israel and Hamas now appear closer than at any point in recent months to achieving a breakthrough that could finally bring an end to one of the most violent and destructive conflicts the Middle East has witnessed in decades.