Israel’s cabinet votes to approve deal to release at least 50 hostages in exchange for 4-day truce
Israel’s cabinet has approved a deal that would see the release of at least 50 hostages — women and children — held in Gaza by Hamas, in exchange for a four-day truce in Israel’s air and ground campaign in the enclave, according to an Israeli government statement.
The statement made no mention of the release of Palestinian prisoners held in Israeli jails, though it is understood this is also a key part of the deal.
The deal was approved by the Israeli cabinet by a significant majority, a government source told CNN.
A more detailed statement will be sent to families of the hostages later today, the statement read.
A meeting between Israeli cabinet members on a potential hostage deal has ended, according to an Israeli government source. There is no word on a result of the vote yet.
US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin spoke again with his Israeli counterpart Defense Minister Yoav Gallant on Tuesday, the Pentagon said Tuesday.
The two discussed Israel’s operations against Hamas as well as the “criticality of increasing and sustaining humanitarian aid and protecting civilians in Gaza,” according to the statement.
Austin also emphasized to Gallant the US’ support for Israel and “the importance of preventing regional escalation,” it said.
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