ALBAWABA - In a significant turn of events on the third day of the humanitarian truce between Hamas and Israel, President Joe Biden expressed determination to extend the ceasefire, following the release of a 4-year-old U.S.-Israeli citizen, Abigail Edan, among 17 prisoners.
Speaking on behalf of the Biden administration, the President underscored the goal of ensuring the safe release of hostages and delivering crucial aid to civilians in Gaza.
President Biden emphasized ongoing communication with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, stating, "Our objective is to continue this pause beyond tomorrow." He outlined the dual purpose of advocating for a cessation of hostilities: to enhance aid to Gaza civilians and facilitate the release of hostages, expressing the hope for additional American hostages to be freed.
Efforts are underway to prolong the initially agreed-upon 4-day humanitarian truce between Israel and Palestine. Since the truce's initiation on November 24, Hamas has released 40 Israelis and 18 foreign nationals or dual citizens, while Israel has released 78 Palestinian detainees.
The President's commitment reflects the broader international efforts to secure lasting peace in the region.
