Israel took final steps to approve a Gaza ceasefire and hostage deal on Saturday in Israel, which is now expected to go into effect Sunday. Here's what to know.

The deal to pause the 15-month war includes the release of hostages held by Hamas. Hundreds of Palestinian prisoners held in Israel would be released in exchange, according to The Associated Press.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken stated that he is "confident" and "fully" expects the agreement between Israel and Hamas to come into effect. According to him, this will happen on January 19, CNN informs.

Reactions from world leaders have been pouring in hailing the ceasefire deal in Gaza between Israel and Hamas. View on euronews

The dispute underscores the fragility of the deal as mediators worked to ensure that it would go into effect on schedule.

The deal, mediated by the United States, offered a glimmer of hope in a conflict that has taken an immense human toll.

Various key coalition members back accord, but finance minister denounces 'dangerous deal,' conditions continued membership in government on full restart of war after truce The post Herzog urges cabinet to support Gaza deal,

The post Herzog meets with Red Cross president to discuss preparations for hostages’ release appeared first on The Times of Israel.

Despite ongoing disputes over the details of a ceasefire deal in the Gaza war, Israeli President Isaac Herzog expressed optimism on Thursday that the talks in Qatar would be concluded swiftly. "There are tough negotiations over a very important detail,

"I loved traveling the world, celebrating life, and going to parties — and then I was kidnapped from a party," the 27-year-old released hostage told crowds at a Nova Music Festival Exhibition event.

Israel's security Cabinet has approved a proposed Gaza ceasefire deal that would include the release of hostages held by Hamas in Gaza.