Israel's security cabinet has ended its meeting to decide on the first part of a cease-fire agreement mediated by the US

Israel's security cabinet has ended its meeting to decide on the first part of a cease-fire agreement mediated by the US. The complete government will convene soon. A ceasefire will take effect immediately following the Israeli government’s approval, according to officials.

The release of all hostages held in Gaza, Israeli military withdrawal to an agreed point and the release of some Palestinian prisoners. A senior Hamas official said a “formal declaration” ending the war in Gaza must be made before hostages are released.

US President Donald Trump said the hostages are expected to be freed early next week, and he plans to visit the region soon.

Israelis and Palestinians reacted to the initiative with joy and cautious confidence. Potential sticking points remain, such as Hamas disarming and Gaza's government.