According to the deal, clinched in talks mediated by Qatar, Hamas will release 50 civilian hostages while Israel will release 150 Palestinian prisoners. The Israeli government has stated that if Hamas releases more hostages, the pause in fighting could be extended, offering a glimmer of hope for securing a more sustained ceasefire. But Israel simultaneously began indirect talks with Hamas seeking to free hostages, which resulted in the current deal. But after six weeks of fighting, Israel is far from achieving its own declared objectives, which raises questions about the effectiveness of its military strategy. They should build on the momentum generated by the deal and extend the pause into a full-fledged ceasefire.

Source: The Hindu November 22, 2023 20:04 UTC