Israel and Hamas have agreed to a four-day ceasefire in the ongoing war in Gaza, as well as the release of hostages held by Hamas in exchange for Palestinian prisoners held by Israel. The truce, mediated by Qatar, marks a significant diplomatic breakthrough since the start of the conflict. The release of hostages will occur in stages, with women and children being released first. Additionally, humanitarian aid will be increased to the besieged territory. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has stated that Israel will resume the war after the ceasefire and continue fighting until all goals, including the defeat of Hamas and the return of all hostages, are achieved. Despite the ceasefire announcement, fighting has intensified in Gaza City overnight, with gunfire, heavy artillery, and airstrikes reported in central neighborhoods. The Qatari-led negotiations between Israel and Hamas, with involvement from the United States and Egypt, have been ongoing for weeks. US President Joe Biden has welcomed the ceasefire and expressed support for the release of hostages and the delivery of humanitarian aid to Gaza. Qatar’s prime minister and top diplomat, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, hopes that the agreement will eventually lead to a permanent ceasefire and serious talks to resolve the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Israel has stated that the ceasefire will be extended for an additional day for every 10 hostages released by Hamas. The International Committee of the Red Cross is prepared to assist with the hostage swap. Israel’s Justice Ministry has published a list of 300 prisoners eligible for release, mainly teenagers arrested for minor offenses. The war has resulted in significant destruction and a high civilian death toll in Gaza. The return of hostages has the potential to divide Israelis, as some hostages will be freed while others remain in captivity. The structure of the ceasefire could also limit Israel’s ability to continue its offensive against Hamas. The war has drawn in Iran-backed armed groups across the Middle East, including Hezbollah and Houthi rebels.
