Hamas Seeks Extension of Ceasefire Amid Prisoner Exchange

As the four-day truce between Israel and Hamas approaches its expiration on Monday, Hamas has officially expressed its intention to extend the ceasefire. In a statement sent to the Israeli government through Qatari mediators, the Palestinian militant group emphasized its desire to prolong the truce and increase efforts to release more prisoners in accordance with the humanitarian ceasefire agreement.

Israel, responding through government sources, indicated a willingness to consider further extensions if additional hostages held by Hamas are freed. Since the commencement of the ceasefire on November 24, Hamas has released 67 hostages, while Israel has freed 39 Palestinian prisoners. Qatar, a central mediator, expressed optimism about extending the truce, with provisions for an extra day of ceasefire for every 10 hostages released by Hamas.

Negotiations in Qatar suggest that Hamas is open to extending the pause by two to four days, potentially leading to the release of an additional 20 to 40 Israeli prisoners. Despite occasional delays and accusations, the UN Relief Works Agency (UNRWA) confirmed a regular flow of relief trucks into Gaza through the Rafah crossing, contributing to aid distribution during the ceasefire period.