Qatar’s foreign ministry has announced that a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas will take effect at 6:30 GMT on Sunday.
The ceasefire will pause the fighting after 15 months of war and see the release of dozens of hostages held by the militants in the Gaza Strip and hundreds of Palestinians imprisoned by Israel.
Israel’s Cabinet approved a deal early Saturday, paving the way for a ceasefire in Gaza. This move aims to facilitate the release of hostages held by Hamas and halt the 15-month-long war, the deadliest and most devastating conflict between the two sides.
The government confirmed the ceasefire’s timing after a lengthy Cabinet session that extended beyond the start of the Jewish Sabbath—an unusual occurrence highlighting the matter’s urgency.
Traditionally, Israeli government activities are paused during the Sabbath unless emergencies arise.
The ceasefire agreement was brokered by mediators Qatar and the United States and initially announced on Wednesday.
However, its finalization faced delays as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu cited last-minute challenges, attributing the complications to Hamas.
On Friday, Israel’s smaller security Cabinet recommended approving the deal, moving it forward.
