Hamas has offered to prolong the temporary ceasefire in Gaza by 4 days past the current expiration date of Thursday. Their goal is to allow additional time for the phased release of Israeli hostages being held in Gaza. So far during the truce, 61 Israeli citizens and 20 other foreigners have been freed, with another group expected on Wednesday.
In exchange for every 24-hour extension of the truce, Hamas has agreed to free 10 more hostages. Israel’s priority is securing the release of all remaining women and children abductees in particular. Mediators like the US and Qatar are also pushing for a broader long-term deal that could see the return of all kidnapped civilians and detained Israeli soldiers from Gaza.
However, Israel remains firmly committed to its ultimate objectives – eliminating Hamas governance and control in the Gaza Strip, as well as rescuing all Israeli hostages victimized in the October attacks by Hamas. The temporary ceasefire does not supersede these long-term goals.
Hamas is believed to still be holding nearly 50 Israeli women and children captive. Israel hopes to gain the freedom of as many abductees as possible during the days ahead, but military operations are expected to resume if no larger agreement is reached. The aim is to topple the 16-year Hamas regime that triggered the latest outbreak of conflict.
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