Biden Supports Extension of Gaza Ceasefire as Hamas Releases More Hostages

In a significant development during the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, the militant group has released a third group of hostages, including a four-year-old American girl. This comes on the third day of a truce that both parties are now considering extending, according to a source close to Hamas.

The hostages were released in exchange for Palestinian prisoners, marking the first relief for captive families since the conflict erupted on October 7. The four-day truce, initiated on Friday, has provided a temporary pause in the devastating Israeli bombardments of the Gaza Strip.

Seventeen hostages, including three Thai nationals, have returned to Israeli territory in the latest release. Unfortunately, one elderly woman, over 80 years old, was admitted to the hospital due to her precarious condition.

US President Joe Biden confirmed the release of a four-year-old American girl named Abigail, emphasizing the trauma she endured after losing her parents to Hamas during the attacks.

The total number of Israelis freed under the current deal has now reached 39 since the truce began on Friday. In exchange, 39 Palestinian prisoners were released on Sunday, following the release of 78 others in the preceding two days.

Hamas released a Russian-Israeli citizen, Ron Krivoy, citing the efforts of Russian President Vladimir Putin and his support for the Palestinian cause. The released individuals were part of approximately 240 people captured during the October 7 attack, which resulted in about 1,200 casualties, according to Israeli authorities.

Despite the positive developments, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu remains determined to continue the offensive until victory, stating, “We continue until the end… and eliminate Hamas.”

There is increasing pressure on Israel to extend the truce further, with French Foreign Minister Catherine Colonna expressing the hope for an extension until all hostages, including French nationals, are freed. President Biden echoed this sentiment, expressing the desire to see more hostages released and humanitarian relief reaching those in need in Gaza.

A source close to Hamas revealed the group’s willingness to extend the truce, informing mediators that the resistance movements were open to prolonging the pause by two to four days. The goal is to secure the release of 20 to 40 Israeli prisoners during this extended period.

However, Israeli leaders have been cautious about expectations for a lasting halt to the offensive. Prime Minister Netanyahu, during his visit to Gaza on Sunday, reiterated Israel’s commitment to achieving all the war’s goals.

As the situation unfolds, the people of Gaza face unprecedented humanitarian needs, with shortages of water and essential supplies. The truce has allowed for the delivery of more aid, but the United Nations agency for Palestinian refugees warns of the continuous requirement for substantial humanitarian assistance.

The conflict has displaced a significant portion of Gaza’s population, with approximately 1.7 million out of 2.4 million people estimated to be displaced by the fighting, according to the UN. The international community closely watches the evolving situation, hopeful for a lasting resolution that brings relief to those affected by the conflict.