The State of Qatar on Wednesday announced that its joint mediation efforts undertaken with the Arab Republic of Egypt and the United States of America between Israel and the Islamic Resistance Movement (Hamas), resulted in an agreement for a humanitarian pause.
The starting time of the pause will be announced within the next 24 hours and last for four days, subject to extension.
The agreement includes the release of 50 civilian women and children hostages currently held in the Gaza Strip in exchange for the release of a number of Palestinian women and children detained in Israeli prisons, the number of those released will be increased in later stages of implementing the agreement, Qatar’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in a statement.
The humanitarian pause will also allow the entry of a larger number of humanitarian convoys and relief aid, including fuel designated for humanitarian needs.
“The State of Qatar affirms its commitment to ongoing diplomatic efforts to de-escalate tensions, stop the bloodshed, and protect civilians. In this regard, the State of Qatar appreciates the efforts of the Arab Republic of Egypt and the United States of America in reaching this agreement,” reads the statement.
Hamas confirms a temporary ceasefire has been reached, adding that 150 Palestinian women and children held in Israeli jails will be freed as part of the deal.
