Israel and Hamas nearing temporary truce to release hostages, deliver aid

The leader of the Hamas terrorist group on Tuesday said it is close to reaching a deal with Israel to pause fighting for several days. U.S. President Joe Biden later repeated that an agreement was nearly finished. Under the deal, at least 50 women and children held hostage in Gaza could be released in exchange for about 150 Palestinian prisoners, most of whom are also women and minors. The deal would also require Israel to allow more aid trucks into Gaza. Qatar has mediated negotiations for a truce for weeks.

What else is happening in the war? The World Health Organization on Tuesday said it may evacuate three hospitals in the Gaza Strip as Israel continues its ground offensive. Israel is widening its operation in northern Gaza, and battled militants Tuesday in the crowded Jabalia refugee camp. The Israel Defense Forces said it found three tunnel shafts where fighters hid. Israeli troops have warned residents in the city to evacuate. 

Dig deeper: Listen to Nick Eicher and Mary Reichard’s report on The WORLD and Everything in It podcast about how not all Muslim nations stand with Hamas.