Jerusalem– Israel’s military is continuing to bombard the Gaza Strip following a four-day cease-fire, designed to allow the militant group Hamas to free a group of Israeli hostages, being delayed until at least Friday.
At least 10 U.S. citizens are missing after Hamas attacked on October 7, and some of them are believed to be hostages, including 3-year-old Abigail Mor Edan. Despite the continued fighting, the government of Qatar, which was instrumental in negotiating the hostage deal, has stated that a temporary pause will take place on Friday at 7 a.m. local time (midnight EST).
The deal accounts for the release of 50 hostages—many of whom are children and women—and at least 150 Palestinian prisoners. Under the understanding, for every 10 hostages freed by Hamas, Israel will extend the temporary cease-fire by one day, and more Palestinian prisoners could be released if the deal is prolonged. This hopes to achieve peace, with the end goal being the release of all Palestinian prisoners.
Colombia Pictures
Families of the hostages are remaining hopeful this Thanksgiving, in anticipation that their loved ones may soon come home. Hadas Calderon, the mother of two abducted children, expressed her despair at the situation, stating that her family has been “broken.” Despite this glimmer of hope, victims of the ongoing conflict are demanding for a permanent, all-encompassing peace, and the release of all Palestinian prisoners.
Infighting continues in Gaza despite the cease-fire, as Israel has expressed intent to “destroy Hamas.” If the temporary cease-fire does go into effect, the release of some hostages is anticipated, with the aim of securing peace for both Israelis and Palestinians.
