Israel strikes ‘50 terror targets’ hours before truce and hostage release begin - The ceasefire deal was signed off by Israel’s government on Saturday morning - but attacks have continued on the Gaza

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

“You waved the white flag before Netanyahu!” yelled blogger MAX BLUMENTHAL. Blumenthal is credentialed by the State Department and runs a site accused of downplaying human rights abuses by China, Russia and former Syrian dictator BASHAR ASSAD. “How does it feel to have your legacy be genocide!”

Trump’s influence has been apparent over the past week as the Republican Party, corporate America, and much of the international order have fallen into line behind him.

President Biden touted the deal from Washington, saying his administration and President-elect Trump’s team were “speaking as one” in the negotiations; Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu hoped “details will be finalized tonight.

The Israel-Hamas war, now nearing a potential ceasefire, has devastated the Gaza Strip. Satellite photos offer some sense of the destruction in the territory, which has been largely sealed off to journalists and others.

A senior administration official provided more details about how the Israel-Hamas ceasefire and hostage release agreement finally came together.

The ceasefire deal between Israel and Palestinian Hamas militants was poised to receive a final endorsement from Israel’s Cabinet Friday and could take effect as early as Sunday, but the critical political question of who will govern Gaza over the long run has once again been put off for another day.

The ceasefire between Hamas and Israel will go into effect in less than 24 hours, said Qatar’s foreign ministry on Saturday.

Under the deal, approved by Israel’s government, 33 Israeli hostages will be exchanged for more than 730 Palestinian prisoners and detainees.

Israel’s 15-month campaign has depleted the group’s military strength, sapped its political influence and opened a leadership void inside the Gaza Strip.