Israel and Hamas reached an agreement for a ceasefire in Gaza lasting at least four days. The truce, mediated by Qatar, aims to facilitate the entry of aid and release at least 50 hostages held by militants in exchange for approximately 150 Palestinians imprisoned in Israel. The ceasefire is seen as a positive development globally, offering hope for the alleviation of civilian suffering in Gaza and the return of Israeli captives. Arab ministers welcomed the agreement but emphasized the need for it to progress toward a comprehensive ceasefire. The ceasefire may extend further if additional hostages are released, with up to 100 hostages expected to be freed by the end of the month. Hamas had previously captured around 240 hostages on October 7, and the truce is set to begin on Thursday morning. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office stated that 50 women and children would be released over four days, with the potential for the truce to be extended as long as 10 more hostages are freed each day. Israel’s justice ministry published a list of 300 names of Palestinian prisoners eligible for release. The terms of the agreement also involve the entry of humanitarian, medical, and fuel supplies into Gaza, a halt to all air attacks over southern Gaza, and a daily six-hour daytime no-fly window in the north. The conflict has resulted in significant casualties and destruction since it began on October 7, with ongoing efforts to address the humanitarian situation and bring about a lasting ceasefire.
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