Israel to free hostages in exchange for peace

In a significant diplomatic breakthrough, Israel has approved a deal with Hamas, paving the way for the release of 50 hostages in exchange for a temporary cease-fire in Gaza lasting at least four days.

The Qatar-mediated agreement, approved by the Israeli Cabinet after hours of debate, marks a crucial development in the ongoing conflict.

"The government of Israel is committed to bringing all of the hostages home," stated Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office.

The deal, struck more than six weeks into the war, will see the release of 50 hostages, with women and children being the first to be freed during the four-day cease-fire.

As part of the agreement, the pause in fighting will extend for an additional day for every 10 hostages released by Hamas. The deal, brokered by Qatar, also includes the release of Palestinian women and children detained in Israeli prisons.

US President Biden welcomed the agreement, expressing hope for the release of American hostages, including 3-year-old Abigail Mor Idan. However, ten Americans remain unaccounted for, adding to the complexity of the negotiations.

Alongside the temporary cease-fire, Israel has committed to allowing more fuel into Gaza and providing significant humanitarian aid, including medical supplies.

Despite the truce, Netanyahu affirmed that Israel would resume its offensive against Hamas once the temporary agreement expires.

While the reported deal aims to create a major pause in the conflict, concerns remain about the fate of prisoners transferred out of the Gaza Strip ahead of the negotiations.

The agreement is a ray of hope for those in Gaza, offering relief amid the devastating toll of the conflict that has claimed thousands of lives on both sides.

[WIth information sourced from NY Post]