Israeli cabinet approves Gaza ceasefire deal with Hamas despite last-minute revolt from hardline ministers: First batch of surviving hostages to be released on Sunday

Israel’s full cabinet has approved the Gaza ceasefire deal, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has confirmed. 

Israel’s security cabinet previously recommended that the deal be approved earlier on Friday, with the truce likely to start on Sunday.  

Initially, the deal would see 33 of 98 hostages freed over a six-week period, with around half of the 98 believed to still be alive. 

The remainder of those held captive are set to be released in a second phase that is yet to be negotiated. 

Hamas said it will not release all hostages without a proper ceasefire and complete withdrawal from Israel. 

Meanwhile, between 990 and 1,650 Palestinian prisoners and detainees are set to be released, with the number depending on how many hostages are freed.