in a significant development amid the six-week-long conflict that began on October 7, Israel has approved a four-day ceasefire deal with Hamas. This marks the first pause in the ongoing hostilities, with the agreement brokered by officials from Qatar and facilitated with assistance from US President Joe Biden.
The ceasefire deal involves the release of 50 women and children held hostage by Hamas. Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu emphasized that this ceasefire does not signal the end of the war. He stated that the conflict will persist until Hamas is eliminated, and all hostages are freed, ensuring that no entity in Gaza poses a threat to Israel.
Key Points of the Ceasefire Agreement:
Humanitarian Access and Bombardment Pause: The ceasefire allows for a temporary halt in the ongoing bombardment, providing an opportunity for humanitarian aid to access Gaza.
Hostage Release: As part of the agreement, 50 women and children are set to be released by Hamas. The exact commencement of the truce and the release of hostages is yet to be specified.
Extension of Ceasefire: The Israeli government has committed to extending the ceasefire by an additional day for every 10 hostages released.
International Involvement: Qatar mediated the deal, and the involvement of the US President contributed to achieving an agreement with more hostages released and fewer concessions, according to Netanyahu.
Both sides confirmed the agreement following a prolonged overnight meeting. Despite facing resistance within his war cabinet, Netanyahu described the decision as difficult but necessary.
Hostages and Background:
Around 240 people were taken hostage by Hamas on October 7, primarily individuals who attended a music festival targeted by the group. These hostages included Israeli citizens and more than half with foreign and dual citizenship from approximately 40 countries.
Hamas had previously released four captives, citing humanitarian reasons, and the Israeli military freed one hostage during a ground invasion. The recent agreement stipulates the release of 50 hostages, with further negotiations expected to address the broader issues in the conflict.
(Source: Original Article)
