Israel-Hamas ceasefire extended by a day as both sides agree to free hostages
A ceasefire between Israel and Hamas looks set to continue as negotiations are ongoing.
The Israel Defense Force (IDF) confirmed on Thursday (November 30) that mediation between the two groups is continuing. It comes as both Israel and Hamas released hostages last night.
And the IDF says it remains hopeful the release of more people can be agreed. It said more people would be let free “subject to the terms” both sides could agree on.
Last night 16 hostages – including US citizen Liat Beinin Atzili – were released by Hamas. While Israel confirmed it had released 30 Palestinian prisoners, including Ahed Tamimi.
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“During the night, 30 male and female security prisoners were released from a number of prison facilities,” the Israels prison service said in a statement.
The ceasefire that facilitated the release of the prisoners was due to end at 7am. Hamas officials have now said the ceasefire will be extended for another 24 hours.
While an IDF spokesman said: “The operational pause will continue in light of the mediators’ efforts to continue the process of releasing the hostages and subject to the terms of the framework.”
Israeli media says officials want a “complete list” of hostages held by Hamas. It is thought the group could be willing to comply with Israel’s terms.
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The Times of Israel says Hamas will be expected to release 10 hostages for every day the ceasefire continues. Israel says it will release 30 Palestinian prisoners in return.
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