Israeli Hamas agree to a temporary cease fire
Israel and Hamas have agreed to a four-day truce mediated by Qatar. This truce will result in the release of 50 women and children held captive in Gaza. In return, Israel will release 150 Palestinian women and children held in its jails. The starting time for the truce is expected to be confirmed within the next 24 hours, as stated in Qatar’s announcement on Wednesday.
The agreement also includes much-needed humanitarian aid for the people of Gaza. This aid comes after weeks of relentless Israeli attacks that have resulted in over 14,100 casualties, including 5,600 children. Additionally, around 1.7 million people have been forced from their homes. In response to the agreement, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen expressed support, stating that the EU will use the pause for a humanitarian surge in Gaza.
Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas commended Qatar and Egypt for their efforts in securing the truce. He also renewed calls for a comprehensive cessation of Israeli aggression, emphasizing the need for humanitarian aid and a political solution based on international legitimacy, leading to the end of the occupation and the Palestinian people gaining freedom, independence, and sovereignty. Secretary General of the Executive Committee of the PLO, Hussein al-Sheikh, echoed these sentiments.
Credit: X @AriseTV