What’s happening:

Israel’s cabinet has voted on a ceasefire in Gaza that includes a hostage and prisoner exchange. The deal, still fragile, involves the phased release of 50 Israeli hostages and Palestinian women and children from Israeli prisons.

Why it matters:

This truce represents a critical juncture in the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas. The negotiations, mediated by Qatari officials, offer a rare glimpse of potential de-escalation in a region marked by prolonged hostilities.

The backdrop:

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has emphasized the temporary nature of the ceasefire, suggesting a continuation of the broader conflict: “We are at war, and we will continue the war,” he stated.

Between the lines:

The deal’s success hinges on the precarious days following its implementation. World affairs editor Julian Borger explains the complexities of the negotiation process and the challenges that lie ahead.

The big picture:

The proposed exchange and ceasefire come after families of Israeli hostages held by Palestinian militants protested for their release, and Netanyahu acknowledged progress in negotiations for their return.

What’s next:

As the world watches, the implementation of this truce will be a test of the resilience of diplomacy in a region fraught with instability and conflict.

This story was first published on theguardian.