Israel Approves Ceasefire, Prime Minister Says
By Stefan J. Bos, Chief International Correspondent Worthy News
(Worthy News) – Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has announced a cease-fire to halt an 11-day military operation against Hamas militants in the Gaza Strip that killed hundreds of people.
His office confirmed Thursday that the Security Cabinet “unilaterally approved” the Egyptian-mediated proposal.
The two sides were still negotiating exactly when it would take effect. However, several reports said the truce was to go into effect at 2 a.m., local time Friday, just over three hours after the cabinet’s decision.
“The political leaders emphasized that the reality on the ground will be that which determines the future of the campaign,” the statement said.
Israel’s decision came after U.S. President Joe Biden pressured Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu to end military actions. Biden said he expected a “significant de-escalation” despite ongoing rockets fired by Hamas militants from the Gaza Strip.
The truce was announced after Israeli airstrikes hit the Gaza Strip as fighting entered the 11th day, hitting what Israel described as targets related to militants.
Palestinian militants also launched rockets from Gaza at Israel on Thursday but less frequent than in previous days. The bloodiest Israeli-Palestinian conflict in years has claimed at least 232 lives in the crowded Palestinian enclave and 13 in Israel, according to officials.
Among those killed are many children, Palestinian authorities say. Israel says it regrets the loss of lives but accuses Hamas of hiding weaponry between civilians, including hospitals, schools, and high-rise buildings.
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