GAZA: Amid the temporary truce agreement between Israel and Hamas in Gaza, the Israeli government confirmed it had received a new list of hostages from Hamas.
This list includes women and children who are expected to be released from captivity in the Gaza Strip in exchange for a one-day extension of the ongoing truce.
The announcement came from the Israeli Prime Minister’s Office, stating, “A short time ago, Israel was given a list of women and children in accordance with the terms of the agreement, and therefore the truce will continue.” However, the statement did not specify the exact number of hostages slated for release in this round.
The truce, originally negotiated and agreed upon last Friday, has acted as a temporary cessation of hostilities. Its primary focus has been the exchange of hostages and prisoners between the two conflicting parties.
Since the unprecedented attacks by Hamas on October 7, during which, approximately 240 hostages, including women and children, were taken to the Gaza Strip. The attacks resulted in the tragic loss of 1,200 lives, primarily civilians.
In response to the Hamas attacks, Israel initiated a substantial air and ground campaign in Gaza. The ensuing conflict, according to Hamas officials, has led to the unfortunate death of nearly 15,000 individuals, a majority of whom were civilians. Large parts of the northern Gaza territory have been significantly impacted, with extensive destruction evident in the aftermath of the military campaign.
Throughout the course of the truce, 102 individuals have been freed, comprising 70 Israelis and 32 Palestinians. Among those released, the majority were hostages taken during the October attacks. Israel has reciprocated by releasing 210 Palestinian prisoners, demonstrating a commitment to the terms outlined in the truce agreement.
The one-day extension, contingent upon the release of additional women and children hostages, underlines the delicate nature of the ongoing negotiations and the efforts to maintain the fragile peace established by the truce. The situation remains fluid, and international observers continue to monitor the developments closely.
