Gaza: Hamas political bureau member Mousa Abu Marzouk said that truce agreed between resistance group and Israel is expected to start at 10am (01:00 pm PST)) today, Al Jazeera reported.

Marzouk said pause in fighting would cover “All regions of Gaza Strip”, adding that “there will be no warplanes or air traffic in Gaza from 10am to 4pm”.

Hamas political bureau member Mousa Abu Marzouk said in an interview with Al Jazeera, “Whole world is seeking ceasefire except US”. “We seek permanent ceasefire and are ready for comprehensive prisoner swap,” Hamas official said, adding that resistance group is ready to deal with all situations imposed by Israel. He further stated that there are no guarantees that Israel will not target Palestinians who will be released from prisons.

Statement by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu office said 50 women and children will be released over four days, during which there will be pause in fighting. For every additional 10 hostages released, pause would be extended by another day, it said, without mentioning release of Palestinian prisoners in exchange. However, Israel justice ministry published list of 300 names of Palestinian prisoners who could be freed.

Meanwhile, United Nations Secretary General Antonio Guterres “Welcomed” hostage, ceasefire deal agreed upon between Israel and Hamas. Taking to social media platform X, Guterres said, “I welcome agreement reached by Israel and Hamas. Its an important step in right direction, but much more needs to be done.”

UN Chief also said that intergovernmental organisation will “Mobilise all its capacities to support implementation and maximise positive impact on humanitarian situation in Gaza.”

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Israel would resume war after truce and keep fighting “Until we achieve all our goals,” including defeat of Hamas.

Residents in Gaza City said fighting there had intensified overnight into Wednesday, with gunfire, heavy artillery and airstrikes in central neighborhoods.

Published in The Daily National Courier, November, 23 2023

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