The cease-fire between Israel and Hamas will be extended by two days, according to Qatar, hours before it was set to expire Tuesday, after additional captives were released from Gaza in exchange for the release of scores more Palestinian inmates.
“The Palestinian and Israeli sides have reached an agreement to extend the humanitarian pause in Gaza for two additional days under the same conditions,” Qatar’s foreign ministry announced on X, formerly Twitter.
Hamas and Israel have agreed to a two-day extension of the truce, as confirmed by the Palestinian resistance group Hamas. Israeli media reports suggest that the government has received a new list of 10 additional captives slated for release, although there is no official statement from Israel.
The truce extension coincides with the release of 11 more captives from Gaza overnight, along with the liberation of 33 Palestinian prisoners, marking the final exchange under the existing agreement. The international community has welcomed the continuation of the truce.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres described it as “a glimpse of hope and humanity in the middle of the darkness of war.” The truce, initially set to end at 7:00 am, garnered global support.
The releases brought relief to the Nir Oz kibbutz community, where most of the captives were from. However, concerns persist for those still held hostage. Israel’s prison authority reported the release of 33 Palestinian inmates, marking a significant development under the truce deal.
While celebrations ensued with captives returning home, clashes erupted near Offer prison, with Palestinians engaging in protests and one person reported killed. Overall, 50 Israeli captives have been released under the truce, exchanging for 150 Palestinian prisoners, with additional hostages released under separate agreements.
Hamas indicated plans to compile lists for the release of more hostages, but challenges arise as some are held by other militant groups. The truce extension comes with a commitment from Hamas to release another 20 women and children.
Despite Israel viewing the truce as temporary and allocating a substantial war budget, pressure is mounting for a more lasting ceasefire and increased humanitarian aid to Gaza. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken is set to visit the region, emphasizing the need for sustained humanitarian assistance, the release of hostages, and discussions on the future of Gaza.
Inside Gaza, challenges persist, with a lack of fuel for generators at hospitals, posing threats to public health. The humanitarian situation remains dire, requiring urgent aid and supplies. Cleanup efforts are underway in Gaza City, which has faced extensive damage, and the aftermath of the conflict has left many with severe injuries, challenging the already strained healthcare system.
The truce has allowed displaced residents to return, but the city grapples with the extensive destruction. Gaza City Mayor Yahya al-Siraj warns of a potential public health catastrophe without fuel for essential services.
As the situation unfolds, concerns about the humanitarian crisis in Gaza persist, emphasizing the need for ongoing international attention and support.
