Israel and Hamas have reached a four-day truce in the ongoing war in Gaza, with the release of hostages by Hamas in exchange for Palestinian prisoners held by Israel. The agreement, announced by Qatar, marks a significant diplomatic breakthrough since the start of the conflict. The release of hostages will be done in stages, with women and children being released first. The truce will also allow for an increase in humanitarian aid to Gaza. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has stated that Israel will resume the war after the truce until all their goals, including the defeat of Hamas, are achieved. Despite the truce announcement, fighting in Gaza City has intensified with gunfire, artillery, and airstrikes reported.
The negotiations leading up to the truce have involved Qatar, the United States, and Egypt. President Joe Biden has welcomed the deal and expressed support for the release of hostages and the provision of humanitarian aid. Qatar’s prime minister has expressed hope that the truce will lead to a permanent ceasefire and serious talks on resolving the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Israel has published a list of 300 prisoners eligible for release, mainly teenagers detained for minor offenses.
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The war, which began in early October, has resulted in the deaths of over 11,000 Palestinians, according to the Health Ministry in Gaza. The invasion has caused extensive destruction in Gaza, displaced over 1.7 million people, and caused severe shortages of basic necessities. Israel has faced international criticism but has vowed to press ahead until Hamas is defeated and all hostages are freed.
The return of hostages could bring relief to their families in Israel, but there may be divisions as some hostages are released while others remain in Gaza. The structure of the truce may also limit Israel’s ability to continue its offensive. Hamas will have a chance to regroup and rebuild its infrastructure during the truce. The war has also drawn in Iran-backed armed groups in the region, with Hezbollah and Houthi rebels engaging in hostilities with Israel. Violence has also increased in the Israeli-occupied West Bank.
As the truce takes effect, the hope is that it will lead to a lasting ceasefire and bring an end to the devastating war in Gaza.
