Israel's security cabinet approved a ceasefire and hostage agreement with Hamas on January 17, signaling a potential end to the year-long conflict by Sunday.
Despite this development, Israeli airstrikes in Gaza persisted overnight, with reports indicating that 113 Palestinians have died since the announcement of the ceasefire and hostage deal on Wednesday evening.
Early Friday, the security cabinet convened to discuss the negotiations led by an Israeli team in Qatar.
Although a broader vote among cabinet ministers was initially set for Saturday, it was rescheduled for Friday afternoon.
Preparations were underway at various Israeli hospitals to receive the hostages slated for release, with Ichilov Medical Center enhancing its private ward and Sheba Hospital organizing specialist staff and essentials for the incoming individuals.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office indicated that, pending final approvals, the implementation of the hostage release and prisoner exchange could commence on Sunday, involving a 42-day plan to halt hostilities, exchange 33 hostages for up to 1,000 Palestinian prisoners, reduce Israeli troop presence in Gaza, and increase humanitarian aid.