In a crucial decision that could alter the trajectory of the longstanding Israeli-Palestinian conflict, the Israeli security cabinet has approved a ceasefire agreement and hostage deal with Hamas.

This announcement was made by the Prime Minister's Office following a four-hour deliberation, during which various political, security, and humanitarian factors were taken into account.

The approved agreement, already signed in Qatar's capital, Doha, aligns with Israel's war objectives following the Hamas attacks on October 7, 2023.

The war, initiated by Israel as a response to the deadly terrorist attacks by Hamas, has resulted in significant casualties on both sides.

According to Gaza health sources, the Palestinian death toll has reached 47,788 with 110,453 injured, while the Israeli military has suffered the loss of 840 soldiers with 5,500 more wounded.

Moreover, 1,195 Israelis were killed during the initial attack by Hamas.

The negotiations culminated in an agreement facilitated by mediators from the United States and Qatar, which had been under discussion for several months.

As part of the deal, Hamas has agreed to release the most vulnerable 33 out of 98 Israeli hostages held in Gaza, including children, women, and the elderly, in exchange for Palestinian prisoners detained in Israeli jails.

The agreement implementation was contingent on the ratification by both the Israeli security cabinet and the government.

The ceasefire agreement, reportedly set to commence on January 19, involves releasing these hostages in increments, overseen by Qatar in cooperation with Egypt and the United States to ensure compliance.

While international actors laud these efforts as unprecedented, the ceasefire's future remains uncertain due to potential political implications in Israel, including the risk of government instability.

Internal political dynamics within Israel have been strained by this agreement.

Itamar Ben Gvir, leader of the far-right Otzma Yehudit party, threatened to withdraw from the government coalition if the agreement was approved.

Despite this potential defection, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's coalition retains a safe majority in the Knesset.

The ratification of the truce and hostage exchange is perceived as a significant move towards resolving immediate humanitarian crises and potentially paving the way for longer-term peace in the region.

However, the ongoing airstrikes and continued violence in Gaza highlight the fragile nature of temporary agreements in a conflict characterised by deep-seated mistrust and historical animosities.