The Israeli government has made a significant move by voting to approve a hostage exchange with Hamas, as announced in a statement early Wednesday local time. According to the statement, at least 50 women and children hostages will be released over the course of four days, during which there will be a temporary pause in fighting.
This decision comes after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had previously stated that “the war will continue” even after a deal. However, it seems that progress is being made towards a humanitarian truce as Hamas has also expressed their agreement to the exchange. In a message on Telegram, the group thanked Qatar and Egypt for their efforts in helping to broker the deal.
Hamas has indicated that the exchange will involve the release of 150 women and children from Israeli prisons. Qatar has also confirmed the deal, stating that the starting time of the pause will be announced within the next 24 hours.
The announcement of this hostage exchange marks a potential reprieve in the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, offering hope for the release of hostages and a temporary cessation of hostilities. This development will likely be closely watched by the international community as efforts towards peace in the region continue to unfold.