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Both Israel and Hamas, mediated by Qatar, announced on Monday the extension of the truce in the Gaza Strip for an additional two days. The Palestinian group, Hamas, disclosed the agreement just hours before the "humanitarian pause" was set to expire early Tuesday, indicating that the extension would adhere to the existing terms.
While there was no immediate confirmation from the Israeli side regarding the extension, the move was welcomed by UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres. He described the extension as "a glimpse of hope and humanity in the middle of the darkness of war."
The extension of the truce offers a window of opportunity for further negotiations and potential breakthroughs in the ongoing conflict. One of the immediate outcomes expected is the release of hostages and prisoners, a critical aspect that has been central to discussions between the conflicting parties.
Many hostages and prisoners have already been exchanged by both Israel and Hamas, a move that has been commended by the international community. A further extension of the ceasefire is clamoured for on the grounds of humanitarian concern.
Meanwhile, UN Chief Antonio Guterres has hailed the truce between Israel and Hamas.
"It's a glimpse of hope and humanity in the middle of the darkness of war and I strongly hope that these will enable us to increase even more the humanitarian aid to the people in Gaza that is suffering so much," Guterres said. Without more time, "it will be impossible to satisfy all the dramatic needs of the population in Gaza."
