Israel has begun implementing a ceasefire deal in Gaza, after it reached an agreement with Hamas for the Palestinian militant group to release all the hostages it holds.
It is the first diplomatic breakthrough after months of failed attempts at stopping the two-year war, which has all but devastated Gaza, left tens of thousands dead and destabilized the Middle East. The deal came after days of negotiations between the warring sides in the Egyptian resort of Sharm El-Sheikh, building on a proposal from U.S. President Donald Trump.
Israel’s Cabinet convened late Thursday to formally approve the agreement ahead of a hostage release. Once the government gives its go-ahead, troops are expected to start pulling back from their positions in Gaza.
Trump said he expects hostages to be released on Monday or Tuesday and he is planning to travel to the region to mark the event. That includes a possible visit to Egypt and address to Israel’s parliament.
"I think it’s going to be a lasting p
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