In a pivotal development, Israel's Cabinet has approved a ceasefire agreement with Hamas, bringing hopes of a temporary respite in the 15-month-long conflict. The agreement, brokered with the help of Qatar and the United States, will take effect on Sunday. It includes the release of dozens of hostages held in Gaza and a halt to military operations, marking the second such agreement since the war began.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirmed the deal following an extended emergency Cabinet meeting that lasted into the Jewish Sabbath. Netanyahu highlighted last-minute hurdles caused by Hamas but underscored the necessity of finalizing the agreement.

As part of the ceasefire's first phase, which will span six weeks, 33 hostages are to be freed. In return, Israel will release hundreds of Palestinian detainees, primarily young people and women, aiming to reduce tensions. The exact status of all hostages remains uncertain.

The agreement also facilitates the delivery of much-needed humanitarian aid to Gaza, a region ravaged by relentless airstrikes and military operations. The Rafah border crossing will reopen, allowing critical supplies of food and medicine to reach civilians. Additionally, the deal stipulates a gradual withdrawal of Israeli forces from many parts of Gaza, though military officials have cautioned that any threat to their troops will be met with decisive action.

Since the conflict erupted in October 2023 following a deadly Hamas attack, the war has claimed over 46,000 Palestinian lives, with nearly 100 hostages still held captive in Gaza. The ceasefire agreement represents a crucial step towards peace, providing a glimmer of hope for those affected by the devastating conflict.