A ceasefire between Israel and Hamas takes effect Sunday at 8:30 a.m. Israel time (1:30 a.m. ET), with the release of three female hostages anticipated as the initial step.

As of 8 p.m. ET Saturday, Israel awaited the final list of hostages for the initial release.

Israel’s Cabinet approved a ceasefire in Gaza and the return of Israeli hostages held since Hamas’ October 7th attack.

Phase One of the agreement, commencing Sunday, spans 42 days, beginning with the release of three hostages.

This phase involves the release of 33 hostages, prioritizing children, women, female soldiers, individuals over 50, and sick or injured men. Over 1,000 Palestinian prisoners will also be returned to Gaza.

While most Israeli hostages are believed to be alive, their identities remain undisclosed until closer to their release.

Additional releases are scheduled: four hostages on day seven, three more on day 14 (prioritizing women), three on day 28, and three on day 35.

Between days 35 and 42, further hostages, along with Hisham al-Sayed (held since 2014) and another individual held since 2015, will be freed.

The final week of Phase One includes the release of 12 hostages.

On day 16, negotiations for Phase Two will commence, focusing on the release of all remaining Israeli hostages, including young men, soldiers, and fallen soldiers.

Phase Two, starting on day 43, will also last 42 days.

The Israeli Defense Force will maintain its presence in Gaza until all hostages are released, subsequently retracting to a border security zone.

This new defense strategy, under the IDF’s Southern Command, is still being finalized.