Wednesday, November 22, 2023

Israel, Hamas 4-day cease fire

JERUSALEM - Israel and Hamas agreed to a four-day cease-fire in the war in Gaza that will facilitate the release of dozens of hostages held by militants as well as Palestinians imprisoned by Israel, officials said Wednesday. 

The Persian Gulf nation of Qatar announced the deal, and Egypt’s state-run Qahera TV channel said the truce would take effect at 10 a.m. local time (0800 GMT) on Nov. 23. Both countries, along with the United States, helped mediate the deal between Israel and Hamas. 

Fifty hostages (of roughly 240 held by Hamas) will be freed in stages, in exchange for the release of 150 Palestinian prisoners. Both sides will let go women and children first. 

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Israel would resume the war after the truce and keep fighting “until we achieve all our goals,” including the destruction of Hamas’ fighting and governing abilities and the return of all hostages. (The AP 11/22/23) Israel-Hamas war: Truce raises hopes of freeing hostages and halting violence | AP News

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