Israel Reviews List of Hostages to Be Freed Saturday but What Happens When the Truce Period Ends?
Israel is facing uncertainties as the truce period is set to end, following the release of hostages by Hamas terrorists. With questions looming about the future direction of the conflict, Israel is considering a potential operation in southern Gaza to apprehend Yayha Sinwar and Mohammed Deif, who are believed to be responsible for the October 7 attacks.
During the first day of the truce, Hamas released 24 hostages, including 13 Israeli women and children, 10 Thais, and one Filipino. In return, Israel freed 39 women and children from its prisons. The precise numbers of prisoners and hostages to be released by Hamas is yet to be announced by Qatar. However, Israeli officials have confirmed that they have received a list of hostages to be freed.
While 215 hostages are still being held in Gaza, Hamas is expected to release 50 hostages during the ceasefire in exchange for 150 Palestinian prisoners. This agreement was reached after negotiations involving Israel, Palestinian militant groups, Qatar, Egypt, and the United States.
Looking ahead, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has hinted at a potential focus on the southern Gaza Strip once the truce ends. The Israeli military believes that key Hamas leaders Yayha Sinwar and Mohammed Deif are hiding in the south, potentially among refugees and hostages, which could pose significant challenges for Israeli forces in their efforts to eliminate them.
As part of their strategy, Israel has urged Palestinian refugees to relocate to al-Mawasi, a narrow tract of farmland along the Mediterranean coast near the Egyptian border. Leaflets have also been dropped in Khan Younis and Gaza City, urging Palestinians to move westward. However, the logistics of adequately ensuring the safety of loved ones in al-Mawasi remain unclear.
The appropriate conditions to protect your loved ones will be provided at al-Mawasi, reassured Avichay Adraee, the IDF’s spokesperson for Arabic media. How exactly Israel plans to deliver on this promise is yet to be seen.
The battle for Gaza City is expected to last around ten days once the truce expires, according to a report by the BBC. The current four-day pause began on Friday, allowing for temporary relief from the violence.
As Israel prepares to confront the challenges that lie beyond the truce period, the nation remains committed to pursuing those responsible for the October 7 attacks. The safety and well-being of hostages and civilians will be pivotal in determining the future course of action.
As developments continue to unfold, it is essential to monitor the situation closely to understand how Israel’s actions will impact the overall dynamics of the conflict in the region.
