GAZA CITY: The Palestinian resistance group Hamas is set to release a third group of Israeli hostages today in exchange for Palestinian prisoners from Israeli jail, following the jubilant reunions of prisoners just a day ago. Families expressed overwhelming joy as hostages returned, while cheering crowds greeted Palestinian prisoners walking free from an Israeli jail.
The latest swap on Saturday, however, experienced hours of delay as Hamas accused Israel of breaching the deal that led to a four-day ceasefire in the seven-week-old war in Gaza. Despite the dispute, Hamas eventually released 13 Israelis and four Thai hostages during the night. In response, Israel confirmed the release of 39 Palestinian prisoners in accordance with the truce agreement brokered by Qatar, Egypt, and the United States.
The office of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has reported receiving a further list of hostages due to be released by Hamas on Sunday. This ceasefire and the accompanying hostage-for-prisoner swap mark the first significant relief for both sides since October 7.
Nearly 15,000 Palestinians Killed in Israeli Bombardments in Gaza
Since October 7, Israel has carried out air, artillery, and naval bombardments alongside a ground offensive in the Gaza Strip, resulting in the deaths of nearly 15,000 Palestinians, primarily civilians, and thousands of children, according to the government in Gaza.
Amidst the developments, Egypt has indicated receiving positive feedback from both sides regarding the extension of the truce for a day or two and the potential release of more hostages and prisoners. US President Joe Biden expressed optimism on Friday, stating that “the chances are real” for extending the truce. Jordan’s Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi has called for a permanent ceasefire and a complete end to the aggression.
However, Israeli armed forces chief Herzi Halevi declared on Saturday that the war to eliminate Hamas would persist.
The latest hostage handover faced delays on Saturday, with Hamas surrendering after Egyptian and Qatari mediators conveyed a promise by Israel to uphold the truce deal. To date, Hamas has released 26 Israeli hostages in exchange for 78 Palestinian prisoners in the two completed releases.
