US, Israel, Hamas Reach Tentative Deal: Women & Children Hostages to be Freed in Gaza
In an unprecedented development, the United States (US), Israel, and Hamas have reportedly reached a tentative agreement to free numerous women and children who have been held as hostages in Gaza. This breakthrough deal comes in exchange for a five-day pause in the ongoing war that has caused immense devastation in the region.
According to the Washington Post, all parties involved in the conflict have agreed to freeze combat operations for at least five days. The initial phase of the agreement will see the release of 50 or more hostages in smaller batches every 24 hours. This will provide a ray of hope for the families of those held captive and bring them much-needed relief.
The conflict between Hamas and Israel escalated on October 7 when Hamas launched a surprise cross-border attack on Israel, resulting in the death of over 1,200 people and the abduction of 240 hostages. In retaliation, Israel conducted strikes that allegedly claimed the lives of more than 12,000 Palestinians in Gaza. The escalating violence has also led to a severe humanitarian crisis, with civilians in the strip desperately in need of a ceasefire to allow essential aid and humanitarian assistance to enter Gaza.
However, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has dismissed the claims of an agreement as incorrect. He emphasized that as of now, there is no deal in place. Similarly, US officials have rejected the reports of a temporary ceasefire deal between Hamas and Israel, stating that they are currently working towards establishing an agreement between the two parties.
On a tragic note, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) announced on Friday that they had discovered the body of one of the hostages abducted by Hamas during their October 7 attack near Gaza’s Al-Shifa Hospital. The hostage was identified as Yehudit Weiss and was found by IDF troops in a structure adjacent to the facility. Additionally, the body of Corporal Noa Marciano, who was also kidnapped on the same day, was recovered near Al-Shifa Hospital.
The situation remains complex and fluid, with conflicting reports about the existence of a deal. While hopes may arise from the tentative agreement to release women and children hostages in Gaza, it is crucial to bear in mind the ongoing challenges in achieving a lasting peace. The international community continues to urge all parties involved to find a viable solution that can bring an end to the violence and suffering endured by the people of Gaza.
