Ceasefire between Hamas and Israel has been extended for the fifth day - 10 have been released

In a significant development, the ceasefire between Hamas and Israel has been extended for the fifth day, leading to the release of abducted individuals, including a mother and her daughter. The release was part of negotiations involving high-In ranking officials, including the heads of the Mossad and the CIA, who met with the Prime Minister of Qatar.

As part of the agreement, ten Israeli women, abducted from various locations, were handed over to the Red Cross and have safely returned to Israel. Two foreign citizens were also released independently. Despite this positive step, some family members of the abductees remain in captivity.

The ceasefire was briefly violated today, with explosives set off near soldiers in the northern Gaza Strip, prompting the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) to respond.

In a parallel move, 30 Palestinian prisoners and security detainees were released from Ofer prison and the Russian detention facility as part of the broader agreement for the release of hostages.

Notably, the US has temporarily halted drone flights over Gaza in adherence to the ceasefire terms, according to the Pentagon. The drones were previously used for intelligence gathering on the abductees.

Humanitarian aid has also entered the Gaza Strip, with diesel and cooking gas tankers approved to cross from Egypt to aid organizations. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu emphasized the need for "total military victory" to disarm Gaza and initiate cultural change, drawing parallels with post-World War II Germany.

Crucial talks involving the head of Egyptian intelligence, the Mossad, the CIA, and the Prime Minister of Qatar are ongoing in Doha. The discussions focus on extending the truce and securing the release of additional hostages, particularly children, mothers, and wives. There are indications of a potential two-day extension, contingent on Hamas releasing ten Israeli hostages per day.

Egypt's role in facilitating communication between Hamas and Israel has been pivotal in resolving recent crises. While efforts were made to keep these discussions confidential, leaks have emerged, possibly aiming to apply public pressure for a lasting ceasefire.