Israel and Hamas agree to extend Gaza truce for two more days as 11 new hostages released
Israel and Hamas have agreed to extend a ceasefire for two more days – in a breakthrough that could see dozens of additional hostages released and more lifesaving aid flow into war-ravaged Gaza.
The decision offers a rare glimmer of hope of a possible end to the conflict that has caused “unparalleled and unprecedented” bloodshed, according to the United Nations.
The announcement was made by Qatari foreign ministry spokesperson Majed Al-Ansari on the final day of the original four-day truce between Israel and Hamas. He said the extension – mediated by Qatar – would allow additional aid to the Gaza Strip, “release the largest possible number of hostages and prisoners”, and would hopefully lead to a permanent ceasefire. After the Qatari announcement, Hamas confirmed it had agreed to a two-day extension “under the same terms”.
Israeli military spokesperson Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari said Israel was “managing a deal through mediators”. Israel has said before it would extend the ceasefire by one day for every 10 additional hostages released. US president Joe Biden
