DEIR AL-BALAH, Gaza Strip (AP) — The planned four-day cease-fire in Gaza and the release of hostages held by Hamas and Palestinians imprisoned by Israel hit a last-minute snag when a senior Israeli official announced a one-day delay. The agreement, which was mediated by Qatar and also involved the U.S. and Egypt, aimed to bring relief to the millions of Palestinians affected by weeks of Israeli bombardment and the families of those captured during Hamas’ attack in October.
Israeli national security adviser, Tzachi Hanegbi, announced the delay without providing a reason, but Israeli media reported that final details were still being worked out. Qatar stated that a new time for the agreement to take effect would be announced shortly.
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The cease-fire raised hopes of ending the ongoing war, which has caused significant destruction in Gaza and led to increased violence in the West Bank. However, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu made it clear that the war would continue once the truce expired, with the goal of destroying Hamas’ military capabilities, ending its rule in Gaza, and securing the release of all captives held by Hamas and other groups.
Israel has made significant advances in northern Gaza, claiming to have dismantled tunnels and infrastructure belonging to Hamas. However, Hamas’ infrastructure remains largely intact, and Israel has threatened to launch wider operations in southern Gaza, where hundreds of thousands of displaced people are living in overcrowded shelters with limited supplies.
Under the truce deal, 50 hostages will be released in stages in exchange for the release of 150 Palestinian prisoners. Women and children will be released first, and Israel has agreed to extend the truce for every additional 10 hostages freed by Hamas. The return of hostages is expected to provide relief to their families in Israel, who have been protesting for their release.
The cease-fire will also allow for increased humanitarian aid to enter Gaza, including fuel, which has been in short supply since the start of the war. The International Committee of the Red Cross will also be able to visit the hostages in captivity.
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The war has taken a heavy toll on Gaza, with thousands of Palestinians killed and millions displaced. The health system in Gaza has collapsed, and many are sleeping on the streets as winter approaches. The truce, although short, is seen as a small step towards alleviating the suffering of the Palestinian people.
