• The Israeli cabinet has approved a ceasefire deal with Hamas, set to commence on Sunday.
• The agreement involves the exchange of hostages for Palestinian prisoners held in Israel.
• Intense strikes in Gaza continue, despite the announcement of the ceasefire.
• The ongoing conflict has resulted in the deaths of over 46,700 Palestinians.
• The deal follows mediation efforts from the US, Qatar, and Egypt.

The Israeli cabinet has officially approved a ceasefire deal with Hamas, following more than 460 days of conflict, with the agreement set to take effect on Sunday. This significant development includes an arrangement for the exchange of hostages held in Gaza for Palestinian detainees in Israeli jails. The announcement was made by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office, which indicated that this decision was reached after discussions among government officials.

Despite the ceasefire's approval, Gaza continues to experience intense bombardment, with reports confirming that over 46,788 Palestinians have died and more than 110,453 have been injured during the ongoing conflict. Following the initial announcement of the ceasefire on Wednesday, the fighting did not subside, prompting increased frustration among those in Gaza. Family members of hostages held by Hamas expressed urgency, emphasizing the emotional toll of their loved ones' captivity.

A coalition of international mediators, including the United States, Qatar, and Egypt, played a crucial role in facilitating the ceasefire. The agreement is structured to provide a temporary halt to fighting for six weeks, during which humanitarian aid is expected to reach the Gaza Strip, severely affected by the ongoing war. The deal also stipulates the gradual withdrawal of Israeli forces from several areas within Gaza.

However, political divisions within Israel have emerged, as some ministers questioned the terms of the agreement and voiced concerns that the deal would hinder military efforts to incapacitate Hamas completely. Despite this, the majority of ministers are anticipated to support the ceasefire, with Netanyahu's office pushing for the immediate implementation of the deal, citing resolved disputes regarding prisoner identities.

This ceasefire offers a glimmer of hope for lasting peace in Gaza; however, many remain skeptical regarding its durability in light of the ongoing violence and division among Israeli officials. As the situation unfolds, the international community will closely monitor the ceasefire's implementation and its impact on the humanitarian crisis facing Gaza.

For further details, refer to the original articles from South China Morning Post and Al Jazeera.