\Efforts by international mediators are underway to prolong a cease-fire in Gaza, marking a pause in the deadliest Israeli-Palestinian conflict in decades. The current cease-fire is set to conclude after Monday, prompting negotiations between Israel and Hamas for a fourth exchange involving hostages held by militants in return for Palestinians imprisoned by Israel.
Israel has proposed extending the cease-fire by one day for every 10 additional hostages released, while Hamas also expresses a desire to extend the four-day truce. This temporary peace commenced on Friday following weeks of indirect talks facilitated by the United States, Qatar, and Egypt.
However, Israel maintains its commitment to dismantling Hamas' military capabilities and terminating its 16-year control over Gaza. This stance suggests a potential expansion of Israel's ground offensive beyond the devastated northern Gaza region to the south. In the southern areas, hundreds of thousands of Palestinians seek refuge in United Nations shelters, enduring dire conditions despite increased aid distribution during the truce period.
The recent release of dozens, primarily women and children, who were among the approximately 240 individuals captured by Hamas during the October 7 attack in southern Israel has spurred Israeli demands for the return of the remaining hostages.
Of the hostages, 62 have been freed, one was liberated by Israeli forces, and two were discovered deceased within Gaza.
"We can bring all hostages home. We must persist," stated two relatives of Abigail Edan, a 4-year-old girl and dual Israeli-American citizen released on Sunday.
Families of the hostages have organized large-scale marches and demonstrations, criticizing Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for perceived insufficient efforts to secure their release. The mounting public pressure might urge him to extend the truce and potentially make concessions to Hamas. However, Israel remains deeply affected by the October 7 attack and is resolute in eliminating the militant group as a threat.
Netanyahu, while visiting troops inside Gaza on Sunday clad in body armor, asserted, "At the end of the day, we will bring everyone back. We are persisting until the end, until victory. Nothing will deter us."
Furthering the exchanges, on Sunday, Hamas released an additional 17 hostages, including 14 Israelis, in the third exchange within the four-day truce. In return, Israel freed 39 Palestinian prisoners.
Gaza War: 17 hostages released by Hamas Israel frees 39 detainees from Palestine
