Hamas Approves Gaza Ceasefire Draft As Israel’s Cabinet Debates Deal

Hamas has approved a draft ceasefire agreement in the Gaza Strip, with Israel’s cabinet currently debating the proposal’s terms, officials have confirmed.

Naijaonpoint understands that if the deal is finalized, it could mark the end of over a year of conflict in the region.

The truce, mediated by the United States, Qatar, and Egypt, has sparked mixed reactions among Israeli leaders. Israeli officials revealed that the agreement includes a phased ceasefire and the immediate release of a dozen Israeli hostages held by Hamas.

Agriculture Minister Avi Dichter emphasized the importance of the agreement during a cabinet discussion on Tuesday.

“We are in decisive moments regarding the return of the abductees, and we, the cabinet members, will ensure their return to their families,” he said.

However, the deal faces resistance from members of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s coalition government.

National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir described the proposal as “terrible,” arguing on social media that it would “erase the war achievements that have been achieved with much blood by our fighters.”

According to a Qatari Foreign Ministry spokesperson, the deal is in its final stages, with both parties agreeing to its core elements.

The first phase reportedly includes a temporary cessation of hostilities, the release of 33 Israeli hostages, and the establishment of a buffer zone within Gaza.

Negotiations for a second phase are expected to commence 16 days after the initial implementation, focusing on the release of additional captives, including male soldiers and the bodies of slain hostages.

Israeli media outlets reported that Israel would retain control over the buffer zone during this period and allow the movement of residents from southern Gaza to the north.

The agreement follows a framework proposed by US President, Joe Biden in May, which outlined a three-part phased ceasefire.

Biden’s plan aimed to provide a structured path toward de-escalation while addressing humanitarian concerns and hostage negotiations.

Israeli government spokesperson David Mencer confirmed that the hostages’ release remains a priority, with negotiations continuing over their safe return.