Israel’s government approved a ceasefire and hostage release deal with Hamas, paving the way for the agreement to take effect Sunday and potentially signalling a new chapter in a bloody 15-month conflict that has enflamed the Middle East.

There are hopes the ceasefire could eventually bring an end to the bloodiest and most destructive war ever fought between Israel and Hamas.

The UN secretary-general has reacted after Israel and Hamas agreed to have a ceasefire deal to halt the war in Gaza. The conflict had lasted several months.