Israel ready for second ceasefire with Hamas to release hostages
Photo: Israeli President Isaac Herzog (Getty Images)
Israel is ready for a second humanitarian pause in the war with Hamas to release hostages, announced Israeli President Isaac Herzog.
The Israeli president held a meeting with ambassadors from about 80 countries.
He emphasized that among the hostages held by Hamas militants are infants, elderly people, the sick, the wounded, and, of course, many women.
"I can reiterate the fact that Israel is ready for another humanitarian pause and additional humanitarian aid in order to enable the release of hostages. And the responsibility lies fully with (Hamas’s Gaza chief Yahya - ed.) Sinwar and the leadership of Hamas," added Herzog.
It's worth noting that out of the 240 hostages captured by Hamas during the invasion into Israel on October 7, 129 remain in the Gaza Strip.
During the week-long ceasefire that occurred at the end of November, 105 civilians were released from Hamas captivity.
Israel's war with Hamas
Israel continues its operation against Hamas militants after they invaded the country in October.
The Israel Defense Forces have already taken control of Gaza - the largest city in the Palestinian enclave. Currently, the Israeli military continues its advance in the northern part of the Gaza Strip.
Just yesterday, on December 18, Reuters reported that Israel and Hamas are open to a ceasefire, but there are differences between the parties.
