A four-day truce between Israel and Hamas commenced on Friday, bringing a temporary halt to the conflict that has gripped the region. The ceasefire allowed much-needed humanitarian aid to flow into the Gaza Strip, which had been under a total blockade since the outbreak of the war.
Under the terms of the deal, 200 trucks carrying essential supplies are permitted to enter Gaza daily. On Friday, the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) reported that Gaza received the largest humanitarian convoy since October 7, with 137 trucks offloading goods.
The truce also facilitated the release of hostages and detainees on both sides. Hamas released twenty-four hostages, while Israel freed thirty-nine Palestinian detainees from its jails. The exchange marks a significant step toward easing tensions and addressing the humanitarian crisis in the region.
The international community has welcomed the truce and the subsequent aid deliveries, expressing hope that this temporary pause could lead to a more lasting resolution. The influx of aid aims to alleviate the dire conditions faced by Gaza’s residents, who have been struggling with shortages of food, water, and medical supplies.
As the truce continues, observers are closely monitoring the situation, urging all parties to maintain the ceasefire and prioritize the well-being of civilians. The coming days will be critical in determining whether this fragile peace can be sustained and potentially pave the way for longer-term negotiations.
Reference(s):
Close-ups in Gaza Ep. 30: Aid trucks enter Gaza as truce takes effect
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