Qatar recently declared that Israel and Hamas have agreed to prolong the existing humanitarian ceasefire in the Gaza Strip for an additional two days. Majed Al Ansari, the spokesperson for the Qatari Foreign Ministry, expressed optimism on Monday, stating that Qatar aims for the humanitarian pause to pave the way for a lasting ceasefire in Gaza, putting an end to the tragic loss of civilian lives. The information was reported by Xinhua news agency, citing a statement from the Qatar News Agency.
Hamas also confirmed the truce extension, asserting in a statement that the temporary ceasefire would continue for an additional two days, adhering to the same conditions outlined in the previous agreement. This extension follows a four-day ceasefire agreement reached last week between Israel and Hamas, mediated by Qatar, Egypt, and the US. The agreement involves a cessation of hostilities in Gaza, increased humanitarian aid to the Palestinian enclave, and the exchange of 50 Israeli hostages held by Hamas for approximately 150 Palestinian prisoners from Israeli jails.
The initial truce, which came into effect on Friday, is scheduled to conclude on Tuesday. Qatar has been actively engaged in mediating efforts, alongside Egypt and the US, since the eruption of the Israel-Hamas conflict on October 7. The primary focus has been on securing the release of hostages and de-escalating the situation in the Palestinian enclave.
(With agency inputs)
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