Israel, Hamas Ceasefire Agreement Nears Ratification

Israel and Hamas have reached a ceasefire agreement, mediated by Qatar and the US, to pause the 15-month conflict and facilitate a hostage-prisoner exchange. The deal involves releasing 33 hostages, including women and children, in exchange for Palestinian prisoners, with the process expected to start on Sunday pending Israeli cabinet approval. The initial phase of the ceasefire is planned to last 42 days and includes humanitarian assistance and partial Israeli military withdrawal from Gaza. The conflict, which began with a deadly Hamas attack on Israel in October 2023, has resulted in significant casualties, with over 46,000 Palestinians reported killed. Despite internal opposition within Israel's government, Prime Minister Netanyahu has indicated the deal's imminent ratification, aiming to stabilize the region after extensive devastation.