In a significant development, Israel has started withdrawing forces from a key Gaza corridor as part of its ceasefire agreement with Hamas. The move follows the release of three Israeli hostages by Hamas-led militants, in exchange for 183 Palestinian prisoners freed by Israel. This latest exchange marks a fragile pause in the ongoing Israel-Gaza war, which erupted following the October 7, 2023, Hamas-led attack on Israel.

Will the Ceasefire Be Extended Beyond Six Weeks?

The emaciated condition of the released Israeli hostages has triggered an outcry in Israel, further complicating Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s decision on whether to extend the ceasefire beyond its current six-week phase.

Despite the hostage release, Netanyahu has repeatedly indicated his intent to resume the war, even if it means leaving dozens of remaining hostages in Hamas captivity. However, public pressure is mounting as the latest hostage transfer highlighted the deteriorating health conditions of those in captivity.

Hamas' Staged Release Ceremony Raises Concerns

The three released hostages—Eli Sharabi (52), Ohad Ben Ami (56), and Or Levy (34)—were paraded on a stage by armed Hamas fighters before being handed over to the Red Cross. This public display was a departure from previous hostage releases, where captives were not forced to make statements before their release.

These hostages were among approximately 250 individuals abducted during Hamas' October 7 attack on Israel, which ignited the war.

Observers noted that the physical condition of these hostages appeared significantly worse than that of the 18 hostages previously released since the ceasefire began on January 19.

Israel Frees Palestinian Prisoners in Exchange

As part of the truce agreement, Israel released 183 Palestinian prisoners. Some of the freed detainees also appeared weak and malnourished, and seven were immediately taken to hospitals, according to the Red Crescent.

Israeli Outrage Over Hostage Conditions

The condition of the released Israeli hostages, coupled with Hamas' forced public statements, has intensified criticism of the militant group within Israel.

Gal Hirsch, Israel's coordinator for hostage affairs, condemned the treatment of the hostages, stating:
"Israel views Hamas' repeated violations with great severity, and the condition of the three hostages who were released this morning with even greater severity."

What’s Next for Israel and Hamas?

• With ongoing tensions, there remains uncertainty over the ceasefire's extension.
• Netanyahu faces internal pressure from both the public and political leaders to prioritize hostage recovery.
• The international community continues to monitor developments in the Israel-Gaza ceasefire negotiations.

As the situation unfolds, the future of the ceasefire remains uncertain, with both sides weighing their next moves.

The Upcoming IPOs in this week and coming weeks are PS Raj Steels, Chandan Healthcare, Ajax Engineering, Voler Car, Maxvolt Energy, Hexaware Technologies, L.K. Mehta, Shanmuga Hospital.

The Current active IPO are Eleganz Interiors, Readymix Construction, Solarium Green.

Start your Stock Market Journey and Apply in IPO by Opening Free Demat Account in Choice Broking FinX.

Join our Trading with CA Abhay Telegram Channel for regular Stock Market Trading and Investment Calls by CA Abhay Varn - SEBI Registered Research Analyst.

Join our Finance Saathi Telegram Channel for Regular Share Market, News & IPO Updates.