On 22 November, Israel and Hamas had negotiated a four-day ceasefire, effective Friday morning (07:00 24/11/2023). This truce was initially meant to take place Thursday morning, but was delayed following last minute logistical concerns. This diplomatic effort was negotiated via mediators in Qatar, Egypt and the USA, with Majed al-Ansari, the spokesperson for the Foreign Ministry of Qatar, announcing that both Israel and Hamas have exchanged lists of hostages to be released. Under this agreement, Israel is expected to release a total of 150 Palestinian prisoners and allow 300 trucks containing humanitarian aid into Gaza. Hamas, on the other hand would release 50 of at least 240 Israeli hostages – with 13 hostages being released in the first round. All hostages and/or prisoners being exchanged are confirmed to be women and children, with the Palestinians stemming from the West Bank. The success of this initiative may result in additional hostages being swapped, possibly extending the ceasefire up to ten days, according to initial reports. The Israeli government have suggested that a second phase could be implemented, with another 150 Palestinians being swapped for 50 Israelis. Tensions among the Israeli-Lebanon border have resulted in minor continued clashes between the two, although Hezbollah have also stated that they will join in the truce.
Israel and Hamas Negotiate a Ceasefire
Israel and Hamas Negotiate a Ceasefire
Israel and Hamas Negotiate a Ceasefire
On 22 November, Israel and Hamas had negotiated a four-day ceasefire, effective Friday morning (07:00 24/11/2023). This truce was initially meant to take place Thursday morning, but was delayed following last minute logistical concerns. This diplomatic effort was negotiated via mediators in Qatar, Egypt and the USA, with Majed al-Ansari, the spokesperson for the Foreign Ministry of Qatar, announcing that both Israel and Hamas have exchanged lists of hostages to be released. Under this agreement, Israel is expected to release a total of 150 Palestinian prisoners and allow 300 trucks containing humanitarian aid into Gaza. Hamas, on the other hand would release 50 of at least 240 Israeli hostages – with 13 hostages being released in the first round. All hostages and/or prisoners being exchanged are confirmed to be women and children, with the Palestinians stemming from the West Bank. The success of this initiative may result in additional hostages being swapped, possibly extending the ceasefire up to ten days, according to initial reports. The Israeli government have suggested that a second phase could be implemented, with another 150 Palestinians being swapped for 50 Israelis. Tensions among the Israeli-Lebanon border have resulted in minor continued clashes between the two, although Hezbollah have also stated that they will join in the truce.