In a significant development amid the ongoing Gaza war, Hamas has released ten Israeli women and children, along with four Thai nationals, who were held captive in Gaza. This move prompted Israel to reciprocate by releasing a group of Palestinian prisoners on Thursday. The exchange of hostages for prisoners is part of a temporary cease-fire agreement brokered by international mediators.
Notably, two Russian-Israeli women were also freed by Hamas in a separate release, further highlighting the complexity of negotiations in the region.
The current cease-fire, which was initially set to expire on Monday, has temporarily halted the deadliest fighting between Israel and Palestinians in decades. International efforts are underway to extend the truce, which is just a few hours away from expiring.
Israel has agreed to prolong the cease-fire by one day for every 10 militant-held hostages released. The delicate balance of negotiations reflects the urgency to find a peaceful resolution amid escalating tensions. The truce extension comes as a relief to those living in southern Gaza, where fears of a devastating ground offensive linger.
The hostage situation arose from an Oct. 7 attack by Hamas in southern Israel, resulting in the capture of approximately 240 hostages. Since the war's initiation, over 13,300 Palestinians have lost their lives, according to the Hamas-controlled Health Ministry in Gaza. The reported casualties do not distinguish between civilians and combatants. In Israel, around 1,200 people have been killed, with the majority of casualties occurring during the initial incursion by Hamas.
While Israel has expressed its determination to resume the war in a bid to end Hamas' 16-year rule of Gaza, mounting international pressure is urging the nation to extend the truce and avoid further devastation, especially in southern Gaza.