More hostages released from Gaza as Hamas aid row resolved by Qatar and Egypt | The Independent
Hamas released a second group of 17 hostages as part of a truce deal with Israel. Thirteen Israelis and four Thai nationals, including women and children, were handed over to the International Committee of the Red Cross. The deal briefly faced a threat due to a dispute over aid supplies, but Qatari and Egyptian mediation resolved the issue. In exchange, 39 Palestinian civilians, including 33 minors, were set to be released from Israeli prisons. The truce is fragile, aiming to exchange a total of 50 Israeli hostages for 150 Palestinian prisoners over four days.
The release marked a temporary halt in hostilities, following Hamas’s recent attacks in southern Israel, resulting in casualties and hostages. High-stakes diplomacy involving Qatar, Egypt, and the U.S. President Joe Biden played a crucial role in ensuring the deal’s continuation. The ceasefire might extend if Hamas maintains a daily release rate of at least 10 hostages. However, concerns persist, with families experiencing both relief and anxiety, as some hostages remain in captivity. The situation reflects the delicate nature of the agreement and the broader tensions in the region.
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