Temporary Ceasefire Declared Between Israel and Hamas: Aid Delivery and Prisoner Exchange Planned

A temporary ceasefire between Israel and Hamas took effect early this morning, marking a four-day pause in the conflict…

Starting at 7 am local time, the ceasefire allows for further aid to enter Gaza and includes a planned exchange of prisoners between the Israeli government and Hamas.

Both parties have exchanged lists of hostages, with the first group, consisting of 13 women and children held in Gaza, expected to be released this afternoon.

Aid trucks containing fuel, relief and medical supplies, were seen entering the Gaza Strip about 90 minutes after the ceasefire began, and Gazans were seen to be returning to their homes.

Despite the ceasefire, reports indicate that sirens and explosions were heard on both sides, warning of rocket fire.

Military operations appeared to continue until the last moment.

The ceasefire, brokered by Qatar, aims to bring a temporary halt to the conflict that has been ongoing for almost seven weeks since the October 7 massacre by Hamas, which led to a crisis in the region.

However, Israeli military spokesperson Avichay Adraee, in a message on social media, urged civilians in Gaza to remain in the south, emphasizing that the humanitarian pause is temporary and the northern Gaza Strip remains a dangerous war zone.

Foreign Secretary Lord David Cameron is scheduled to hold talks with Palestinian leaders today during his visit to the Middle East.

According to a report, the UK will also provide an additional £30 million in aid to Gaza.