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Associated PressOct 31, 2023
Gaza Temporary Ceasefire Comes Into Effect
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The Facts
The Qatari-mediated agreement between Israel and Hamas to pause hostilities for four days and exchange hostages held in Gaza for Palestinian prisoners held in Israeli jails came into effect Friday morning with no ceasefire violations reported as of Friday afternoon local time. An Egyptian official reported that at least 90 aid trucks have so far entered Gaza through the Rafah crossing with Egypt.
Thirteen Israeli hostages — including four children and six elderly women — were delivered to the Red Cross later on Friday and transported to Israel after weeks as captives of Hamas. Additionally, a group of ten Thai nationals and a Philippine citizen were also freed outside the framework of the cease-fire deal.
The Spin
Pro-Israel narrative
While freeing hostages is of the utmost importance, Israel must not succumb to unfair international pressure. Hamas has a history of forcing uneven deals, and the Israeli war cabinet made the right decision by weighing its options before accepting this temporary pause. It should remain clear, however, that Israel's ultimate goal is to eliminate Hamas from the Gaza Strip, and Jerusalem will continue to work toward this end.
Pro-Palestine narrative
Though the Israel Defense Forces have made steady progress on the ground, a tactical assault on Hamas to free the captives could lead to the deaths of many more. Israel has made a wise choice to bring its citizens home immediately through this temporary ceasefire. This will also see much-needed aid reach Gaza, where an utter humanitarian cataclysm is unfolding.
