Netanyahu Confirms a Ceasefire-Hostage Deal Has Been Reached

Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office announced early Friday that a deal to secure the release of hostages held by militants in the Gaza Strip has been reached. This comes after earlier reports of last-minute snags delaying a ceasefire agreement to pause the 15-month conflict.

Netanyahu stated he would convene his security Cabinet later Friday, followed by a government meeting to approve the long-anticipated agreement.

The deal includes the release of dozens of hostages in Gaza in exchange for Palestinian prisoners held by Israel. It also aims to pause fighting and allow hundreds of thousands of displaced Palestinians to return to their homes in Gaza, offering a potential respite from the prolonged violence.

Here is the Prime Minister’s Office Announcement in full:

This is a developing story and will be updated as more information becomes available.