The latest exchange between Hamas and Israel took place Tuesday, with a cease-fire extension looming on the horizon. Ten Israeli hostages and two Thais were returned to Israeli territory after being held by Hamas. Additionally, 30 Palestinian prisoners were released by Israel.
This recent cease-fire could potentially allow for more aid into Gaza, where the population has suffered from overwhelming siege and bombardment. Israel has vowed to destroy Hamas and end its 16-year rule over Gaza, which has resulted in the capture of roughly 240 hostages. The Hamas-controlled Health Ministry in Gaza reported over 13,300 Palestinian casualties, while about 1,200 people died in Israel, mainly during the initial attacks.
In addition to the ongoing prisoner exchanges and cease-fire extension, the G7 foreign ministers and the European Union High Representative called for the release of all hostages and facilitated departure of foreign nationals from Gaza.
Following the latest developments in the Israel-Hamas war, the family of an infant hostage pleaded for his release, while the U.S. sent medical aid to Gaza. Meanwhile, displaced families in Gaza continue to salvage what they can after flooding and homelessness, amid signs of increasing fragility in the current cease-fire.
