The Israel-Hamas ceasefire has been extended for an additional two days, according to the Qatari government. This extension creates an opportunity for further negotiations, potentially involving the exchange of hostages held by militants for Palestinians imprisoned by Israel. Qatari Foreign Ministry spokesman Majid Al Ansary confirmed the extension on the last day of the original four-day truce, as reported by the AP. A fourth swap of hostages for prisoners, part of the existing deal, was expected on Monday. Qatar, along with the United States and Egypt, has been a key mediator in the Israel-Hamas conflict. Israel had signaled its willingness to extend the ceasefire by one day for every 10 additional hostages released. After the Qatari announcement, Hamas agreed to the two-day extension “under the same terms.” Despite the Israel-Hamas ceasefire, Jerusalem remains committed to neutralizing Hamas’ military capabilities and ending its 16-year rule over Gaza, especially after the October 7 attack into southern Israel. There is a possibility of expanding the ground offensive from northern to southern Gaza. Dire conditions persist in the southern region, where numerous Palestinians have sought refuge in UN shelters despite increased aid deliveries. Israel has declared that it will resume operations with “full force” once the current ceasefire expires unless Hamas agrees to further hostage releases. The goal is to eliminate the group and secure the release of the remaining captives. During the ongoing truce, 58 hostages, including 39 Israelis, have been released. Before the truce, four hostages were freed, one was rescued, and two were found dead inside Gaza. The scenes of women and children reuniting with their families have stirred support in Israel for the return of those still in captivity. Relatives of Abigail Edan, a 4-year-old dual Israeli-American citizen released on Sunday, express optimism, saying, “We can get all hostages back home. We have to keep pushing.” It is estimated that Hamas and other militants may still hold up to 175 hostages, potentially extending the ceasefire for two and a half weeks. However, these include soldiers, and the militants may demand more significant concessions for their release.
