The United States has expressed confidence that a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas will proceed as planned, despite ongoing Israeli airstrikes on Gaza.
The ceasefire, brokered by Qatar and the U.S., was announced on Wednesday and is scheduled to take effect on Sunday.
Israeli officials have suggested that the cabinet’s vote on the ceasefire could face delays. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has accused Hamas of attempting to alter the agreement’s terms.
However, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken stated that he remains optimistic the deal will be implemented as scheduled.
The ceasefire aims to end months of hostilities between Israel and Hamas. Under the agreement, hostages held by Hamas are to be exchanged for Palestinian prisoners detained by Israel.
While full details of the exchange have not been disclosed, hundreds of Palestinian prisoners are expected to be released.
The truce announcement has been met with skepticism, especially after reports of continued Israeli airstrikes that have reportedly killed 83 Palestinians since the ceasefire was declared.
Hamas has expressed concerns about the ongoing strikes, with its military wing warning that continued attacks could endanger the hostages. The group has accused Israel of undermining the ceasefire efforts.
The international community is closely monitoring the situation, with hopes that the agreement could pave the way for a reduction in violence and increased humanitarian aid to Gaza.
The U.S. and Qatar have emphasized the importance of adhering to the ceasefire terms to prevent further escalation.
