It took an unexpected turn for the worst on last 7th. 1,400 people perished as a result of rockets fired into Israel by Hamas troops. Many civilians were kidnapped and held captive.
Israel attacked with indiscriminate retaliation. The 49th day of attacks in Gaza has resulted in more over 15,000 deaths. Children made up over 6,000 of the deceased.
The UN General Assembly has already passed the resolution that Jordan presented addressing the ceasefire. Israel persisted in attacking Gaza despite international pressure that it follow this agreement.
After 48 days of fierce warfare, Israel and Hamas troops agreed to a temporary truce deal that would last for four days thanks to the efforts of the United States, Egypt, and Qatar. This also states that when Hamas promised to release 50 of the 240 hostages it was holding, Israel agreed to free 150 Palestinian prisoners. Women and children on both sides were supposed to be liberated first.
First, last Friday saw the release of 24 hostages—14 Israelis, 10 Thais, —by Hamas. Israel also freed 39 Palestinian prisoners it had been holding in exchange.
17 people including 13 Israelis and 4 Thais were released on Saturday as the 2nd phase, and 17 people including 14 Israelis and 3 Thais were released by Hamas forces yesterday as the 3rd phase. Israel also released 39 Palestinians each in the 2nd and 3rd phases.
With yesterday being the final day of the ceasefire agreement, there is much controversy across the world regarding whether the ceasefire would end or be prolonged. However, Hamas has stated that it is willing to extend the interim truce for an additional two to four days. A significant number of captives are anticipated to be released.
The world has been outraged by the high number of youngsters killed in war. The nations of the globe anticipate that the war will soon come to an end and that peace will return as the hostages are gradually being freed.
A cease-fire, the release of captives from both sides—let all of this portend the end of the conflict.
End the war between Israel and Hamas!