The Israeli cabinet is set to back an end to offensive military activities in the Gaza Strip, three weeks after attacks began, the BBC understands. Israel’s leaders are expected to approve a ceasefire at a meeting later on Saturday, after which PM Ehud Olmert will address the nation, sources said. The sources said the ceasefire deal did not involve Hamas. It is not clear how Hamas will respond; its officials say the group will ignore any truce unless its demands are met. Ahead of the move violence continued in Gaza, with 50 Israeli air strikes overnight. Rocket fire from Hamas militants also continued. About 1,200 Palestinians have been killed since the violence began on 27 December. Thirteen Israelis – three civilians and 10 soldiers – have been killed during the campaign.
As usual, the Israelis are choosing their own timing to pull out, and their own terms. No one who could force them to stop this did, so why not choose their time and place? They may be out in a day or two, but we must go on, and intensify our work against the murders and war criminals. Let us not rest, use the fact that Israel is the most hated regime anywhere now, and act to end the nightmare of Zionism NOW!