Israel, on early Friday, said that it has approved a deal to secure the release of all hostages held in Gaza, both living and deceased. "The government has just approved the framework for the release of all the hostages -- both the living and the deceased," a statement issued by the prime minister's office said.It marks a significant step toward a potential pause in the devastating two-year conflict. The approval focuses on the exchange of hostages for Palestinian prisoners, brokered by US President Donald Trump, while other aspects of the ceasefire plan remain unresolved.Iran welcomed the Gaza ceasefire agreement, which it has supported for years. "Iran has always supported any action and initiative that includes stopping the genocidal war, withdrawal of the occupying forces, bringing in humanitarian aid, releasing Palestinian prisoners and realising the fundamental rights of the Palestinians," the foreign ministry said in a statement.The Cabinet’s decision came as Israeli forces continued airstrikes in Gaza. One attack reportedly left over 40 people trapped under rubble, with at least two confirmed dead, according to the Palestinian civil defence. The Gaza health ministry reported 11 deaths and 49 injuries over the past 24 hours, though it does not differentiate between civilians and combatants.The tentative agreement comes after months of stalled negotiations. The broader ceasefire plan faces unresolved questions, including Hamas’ disarmament and governance of Gaza. The conflict, which began with Hamas’ deadly attack on Israel on Oct. 7, 2023, has claimed tens of thousands of lives. Gaza’s health ministry reports more than 67,000 Palestinians killed and nearly 170,000 wounded, with women and children accounting for roughly half the deaths.An Israeli military official said the strikes targeted threats to troops, even as mediators pressed for a truce. Hamas accused Netanyahu of trying to “shuffle the cards and confuse” efforts to end the war.