In the Mideast, Israel has called off its three-week offensive in the Gaza Strip. Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert announced on Saturday evening that the unilateral ceasefire would start at 2 a.m. local time on Sunday. The announcement came amid hopes from both Palestinians and Israelis that a ceasefire would finally bring peace to Gaza.
Under the Egyptian-brokered unilateral ceasefire proposal, Israel's leaders have agreed that fighting will stop immediately.
Under the proposal, Israeli forces would remain in Gaza during that time, and the territory's border crossing with Israel and Egypt would remain closed until security arrangements are made to prevent Hamas arms smuggling.
Meanwhile, after being bombarded for three weeks, Palestinians in Gaza are holding out hope for a ceasefire. It's a hope shared by a number of Israelis as well.
Mohammad Shehab, Gaza Resident, said, "I hope they'll abide by a ceasefire, open the crossings, and lift the siege. The Palestinian people have suffered. It's enough."
Zohar, Ashkelon Resident, said, "A ceasefire of course is good for Israel, a ceasefire is good for all the world. Ceasefire from both sides is good, of course. Fire is not good."
Officials say over 1,140 Palestinians have died since Israel launched its devastating assault on Gaza. Half of the casualties were civilians, including many children. Thirteen Israelis have also died.
Meanwhile, protests against Israel's invasion of Gaza have resumed in a number of European cities.
Thousands of protesters marched through Paris in the third major pro-Palestinian march in the French capital in as many weeks.
In Berlin, more than a thousand people took to the streets, with more joining during the course of the demonstration.
In Sarajevo, more than 5,000 Bosnians and Palestinian expatriates gathered in the city's center to protest against the Israeli bombing of Gaza.
(CCTV January 19, 2009)
