Ongoing talks between Israel and Hamas, brokered by Egypt and the United States, six Israeli hostages were released by Hamas on Thursday night. This marks the latest development in the effort to extend the ceasefire initiated on Nov. 23, with a total of 240 hostages freed by the militant group since then.
The freed hostages, initially captured during the Oct. 7 attack on Israeli border communities, were handed over to Egypt at the Rafah crossing before being reunited with their families in Israel.
As part of the negotiations, Israel reciprocated by releasing approximately 30 Palestinian prisoners, primarily from the West Bank, associated with Hamas or other factions. This exchange, the seventh consecutive day of such gestures, is viewed as a confidence-building measure and a humanitarian move by both sides.
The truce, originally set to conclude on Nov. 29, saw extensions of 24 hours on Wednesday and an additional 48 hours on Thursday. Talks in Cairo continue, addressing critical issues such as Gaza’s reconstruction post the May war, the return of Israeli soldiers and civilians’ bodies held by Hamas, and the removal of restrictions on movement and trade in and out of Gaza.
U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, visiting Israel, expressed support for the truce and ongoing negotiations. He called for more effective steps to protect civilians and prevent further escalation. Blinken announced a $75 million aid package for Gaza’s recovery, supplementing the $360 million pledged in May.
During his visit, Blinken commended Israeli leaders for their pragmatic and responsible approach to the situation. He also spoke with Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, emphasizing the U.S. commitment to a two-state solution.
Blinken expressed hope that the truce would pave the way for a durable calm and a pathway to peace between Israel and Hamas, as well as with the Palestinian Authority. The U.S. aims to continue collaborating with regional partners and the international community to advance the interests and rights of both Israelis and Palestinians.
