ALBAWABA - The world watches closely as the temporary 4-day truce in Gaza enters its final day, as mediators seek an extension as both Hamas and the Israeli government declare their willingness in exchange for releasing hostages on both sides.
The truce that went into effect on Friday, November 24, came after weeks of continuous talks between Hamas and the Israeli government after the mediation of a number of countries including Qatar, Egypt, and the United States.
Hamas has signaled its willingness to extend the truce, with a source saying the group told mediators they were open to prolonging it by "two to four days", as Israel also said that they will be willing to extend the truce by 24 hours for every 10 Israeli hostages that Hamas releases.
Earlier today, the office of the Israeli Prime Minister said in a statement that "discussions are being held on the list that was received overnight and which is now being evaluated in Israel,". "Additional information will be issued when possible," the statement added.
Under the hostages swap deal and over the course of 4 days, Hamas was conditioned to release 50 Israeli hostages in exchange for 150 Palestinian prisoners including women and prisoners under the age of 19.
Following a number of delays on the second day of the hostage exchange, Hamas accused Israel of not honoring their part of the deal in delivering humanitarian aid and fuel to the northern parts of the strip.
On the third day of the four-day humanitarian truce, Hamas released the third group of hostages as part of the deal between Israel and Hamas. Thirteen Israelis, three Thais, and one Russian were released and handed over to the Red Cross.
The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed the Red Cross' information, indicating that 14 Israelis and three foreign persons had been transferred to the Red Cross. The released Russian person has dual citizenship in both Russia and Israel.
Al-Aqsa Flood operation against Israel
Hamas military group announced on Oct. 7 a military operation called "Al-Aqsa Flood" against Israel which is the biggest offensive in decades.
Palestinian fighters “infiltrated” Israel from the Gaza Strip captured military bases and took hostages as photos and videos went viral online showing Hamas fighters on vehicles inside Israel and others paragliding into occupation territory.
In response, Israeli armed forces announced targeting Hamas positions inside the Gaza Strip. Thousands were killed, and dozens of thousands of others were injured in the Israeli attacks on the Gaza Strip.
