A truce between Israel and Hamas is set to start on Friday at 7 a.m. local time, with hostages expected to be released soon. The release includes 13 women and children from Gaza and 39 Palestinian prisoners from Israel.
The truce, lasting at least four days, aims to bring a break in the conflict and allow humanitarian aid into Gaza. Despite the truce, there were reports of continued artillery fire. The conflict began after a terror attack on Israel by Hamas, leading to mass abductions and a dire humanitarian crisis.
The truce is a result of diplomatic efforts, but Israel’s defense minister expects the military operation against Hamas to continue forcefully. This is an ongoing story, and updates will follow. (Source: CNN)