Israel and Hamas Negotiate Extension of Gaza Truce in Last-Minute Deal

Hamas Releasing 30 Detainees, Israel and Hamas Negotiating Truce

Hamas has published a list of 30 detainees to be released, including first Palestinian Israeli citizens, under a potential extension of the Gaza truce being negotiated with Israel. Despite a willingness on both sides to prolong the truce, no agreement has been reached yet. Israel has stated that it would consider any reasonable proposal.

If negotiations succeed in extending the truce, families of Israeli hostages will receive the names of those to be released. The final group of detainees to be freed includes Palestinian citizens of Israel and residents of occupied territory. Israel is doing everything to secure the release of the hostages, noting that “this war will end with the end of Hamas.”

The truce, which came after a deadly rampage on October 7, has brought relief to a conflict between Israel and the Palestinian Islamist group Hamas. To date, 60 Israeli women and children have been freed, alongside 180 Palestinian security detainees. As part of the deal, Israel is willing to prolong the truce further if Hamas continues to free hostages at a rate of 10 per day.

Palestinian health authorities confirmed on Tuesday that 160 more bodies were recovered during the truce, with around 6,500 people still missing. The truce included discussions on possible parameters for a new phase of the agreement, with both parties prepared for war to resume if necessary.

Additionally, the truce has held despite reports of small-scale violations from both sides. The release of detainees remains a priority, raising concerns about those still in captivity. Discussions are ongoing to ensure the safe release of all hostages, with reports indicating that the next releases may involve Israeli men or soldiers.

The ongoing negotiations for the truce and hostage release demonstrate the delicate nature of the conflict between Israel and Hamas. The potential for an extended truce, continuing negotiations, and the ultimate end of the hostilities hinge on the successful release of hostages, and the goodwill of both parties.

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