Israeli cabinet set to approve critical ceasefire with Hamas

The cabinet meeting aims to get the nod on the agreement with Hamas concerning the ceasefire in the Gaza Strip. This information was conveyed by Israeli media, referencing government sources. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken has expressed hope that the ceasefire will be in place by Sunday.

Aryeh Deri, the chairman of the Shas party, announced that all hurdles obstructing the agreement's implementation have been cleared. "A few minutes ago I received a final announcement that all obstacles have been overcome and the deal is underway," Deri stated during a conference. He added that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is instrumental in reaching the agreement.

The Minister of Diaspora Affairs, Amichai Chikli, declared he would exit the government if the Israeli military withdraws from the Philadelphi Route before achieving wartime goals, such as the overthrow of Hamas and the release of hostages. This remains a significant point in the negotiations between Israel and Hamas.

Antony Blinken, the U.S. Secretary of State, expressed confidence that the ceasefire would be implemented as planned. "It's not exactly surprising that in a process and negotiation that has been this challenging and this fraught, you may get a loose end. We're tying up that loose end as we speak," Blinken reported at a press conference. He also communicated with U.S. negotiator Brett McGurk and Qatari officials to finalize the agreement.