Approximately 240 captives were taken hostage by Hamas and its affiliated militant groups when gunmen invaded villages in southern Israel.
Source: Hindustan Times
There has been worldwide pressure on Israel to halt or postpone its ceaseless bombardment of Gaza, as at least half of them are foreign nationals or holders of dual citizenship from about 40 countries. The Israeli government said that for every ten hostages that Hamas released, the ceasefire would be prolonged by one day.
Benjamin Netanyahu, the prime minister of Israel, has stated that after the ceasefire ends, the war against Hamas will continue. But if the quiet results in a stronger cry to terminate the conflict on both the international and local fronts, Tel Aviv might have trouble fulfilling its objective of neutralising Hamas’ military capabilities. After suffering significant losses, Hamas was able to regroup thanks to the brief cessation of hostilities.
Source: TODAY
The militant group has stated unequivocally that its victorious fighters will be on the lookout to defend our people and defeat the occupation and that its fingers will remain on the trigger.
Both parties bear the responsibility of upholding the truce and preparing the ground for a possible protracted hiatus. The efforts of Qatar and other nations to get Israel and Hamas to the bargaining table would be undone by any violation. A lot will rely on whether Hamas decides to release all of the captives (and when) or retains some as a negotiating tool.
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