Hamas releases third group of hostages during truce with Israel
Hamas has released another group of hostages as part of its truce with Israel, and there are efforts to return hostages held by other groups in Gaza. Israel's war cabinet has discussed the possibility of extending the truce, and Hamas has expressed its desire to extend the truce as well. There is skepticism about whether the US Congress can pass a package that includes aid to Israel by the end of the year. Additionally, more details have emerged about the conditions the freed hostages endured during their captivity in Gaza.
Efforts to Return Hostages Held by Other Groups in Gaza
According to a top US official, there are ongoing efforts to return hostages held in Gaza by groups other than Hamas. These groups include Palestinian Islamic Jihad and other loosely connected groups affiliated with Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad. The goal is to ensure that all hostages in Gaza are safely returned to their families.
Negotiations are currently underway to return at least 50 women and children through a deal with Hamas. So far, 17 hostages have been released as part of these efforts.
Discussion on Extending the Truce
Israel's war cabinet has discussed the possibility of extending the temporary truce with Hamas. The conditions for an extension remain the same, with Hamas needing to release an additional 10 hostages for each additional day of pause in the fighting.
The truce, which involved the release of hostages held captive by Hamas in exchange for Palestinian women and children in Israeli jails, has been successful in allowing humanitarian aid to enter Gaza. The truce has also seen the release of hostages on multiple occasions.
Hamas Wants to Extend the Truce
Hamas has expressed its desire to extend the four-day truce with Israel. The truce, which is currently in its third day, has resulted in the release of three groups of Israeli hostages and three groups of Palestinian prisoners and detainees from Israeli jails.
Qatar, which played a central role in mediating the truce, has also expressed its hopes for an extension. The truce allows for an extra day to be added for every ten hostages Hamas is willing to free.
Skepticism About Passing Aid Package to Israel
There is doubt about whether the US Congress can pass a large national security package that includes aid to Israel by the end of the year. Representative Mike Turner expressed skepticism, citing the White House's policy on the southern border as an impediment.
Turner also mentioned the possibility of placing conditions on aid to Israel to lessen civilian casualties in Gaza, but stated that such conditions already reflect US policy. He also advocated for sharing US intelligence on Hamas and their use of hospitals and civilian buildings.
The passing of the aid package is crucial for providing funding and support to Israel, Ukraine, Taiwan, and the US southern border.
Conditions Faced by Freed Hostages in Gaza
Details have emerged about the conditions endured by the hostages during their captivity in Gaza. Some of the freed hostages, including Keren Munder and her family, went days with little food and lost significant weight. Their diet consisted mainly of rice and bread.
Despite the challenges they faced, the hostages are now receiving medical treatment and support. The release of the hostages is a significant development in the ongoing efforts to bring an end to the conflict between Israel and Hamas.
