In a significant diplomatic move, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz has pledged that his government will exert every effort to secure the release of more detainees in the Gaza Strip.
Scholz expressed gratitude to those involved in these sensitive negotiations, highlighting their unwavering diplomacy.
Speaking at the government statement in Parliament on Tuesday, Scholz relayed his satisfaction with the recent liberation of individuals previously held by Hamas in Gaza.
He noted, particularly, the release of several Germans, which he described as an added cause for celebration.
However, Scholz emphasized that over 100 women, men, and children are still held by Hamas, urging their immediate release.
A temporary “humanitarian truce” began in the Gaza Strip on Friday, November 24, 2023, lasting four days.
This truce, brokered by Egypt and Qatar with U.S. sponsorship, followed an agreement between Palestinian and Israeli parties on its detailed terms.
Under the truce, an exchange was arranged: 50 detainees in Gaza for 150 Palestinian prisoners in Israeli jails.
Additionally, 130,000 liters of diesel and four trucks of gas were transported into Gaza through the Rafah border crossing, marking a significant step in humanitarian aid flow from Egypt, including daily entry of 200 trucks carrying food, medicine, and water.
This aid initiative is the first of its kind since the onset of the conflict in Gaza on October 7.
The truce was extended for an additional two days with the same conditions, focusing on releasing more detainees from Gaza and Palestinian prisoners.
The extension agreement included the release of 10 detainees, including women and children, in exchange for 30 Palestinian prisoners each day, resulting in the total release of 20 Israelis for 60 Palestinians.
