Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced on Friday that an agreement had been finalized to secure the release of hostages held in Gaza.

This followed a statement from his office the previous day citing last-minute obstacles in negotiations to exchange hostages for a ceasefire in Gaza and the release of Palestinian prisoners.

Netanyahu plans to convene his security Cabinet later on Friday, followed by the government, to approve the ceasefire arrangement.

On Thursday, his office indicated that the Cabinet would not approve the ceasefire deal until Hamas addressed concerns over alleged violations of the agreement, which Israel claimed were attempts to extract additional concessions.

'Last-minute crisis' delays Gaza truce, hostage deal: Netanyahu

Meanwhile, Israeli airstrikes across Gaza have reportedly killed at least 72 people since the ceasefire deal was announced, according to Gaza's Health Ministry. Residents in Gaza reported heavy bombing overnight as celebrations of the agreement were underway. Historically, both sides have intensified military actions shortly before ceasefires begin, often as a show of strength.

The deal, set to take effect on Sunday, outlines the release of 33 hostages over six weeks in exchange for hundreds of Palestinians detained in Israeli prisons. A second phase involving the release of male soldiers and other hostages will be negotiated during the initial phase. Hamas has stated it will not free the remaining captives without a permanent ceasefire and a complete Israeli withdrawal.

According to Gaza’s Health Ministry, Israel’s military campaign has resulted in over 46,000 deaths, predominantly women and children, though it does not specify how many were combatants. Israel claims to have killed more than 17,000 fighters but has not provided evidence.