A group of hostages freed from Gaza over the weekend described difficult conditions, including rarely seeing sunlight, during their captivity. The six-week first phase of the truce calls for the release of 33 hostages and nearly 2,000 prisoners.
The ceasefire deal has led to an influx of Palestinians into northern Gaza, with over 545,000 estimated to have crossed since its implementation. However, prices remain high due to a lack of cash, affecting households’ ability to access food.
Hostages released from captivity shared their harrowing experiences, including physical and psychological torture. One American-Israeli hostage described spending long periods alone, losing significant weight, and being given little food.
The opposition leader has stated that the government will not fall over the continuation of a ceasefire in Gaza, despite domestic pressure to resume the war.
Additionally, Russia is discussing the ceasefire deal with Hamas’ Musa Abu-Marzouq, focusing on increasing humanitarian aid to the affected population. Meanwhile, Syria’s interim president is set to meet with Turkish officials to discuss economic recovery and security steps.
Source: https://apnews.com/article/israel-hamas-war-gaza-ceasefire-news-02-03-2025-cedca7301487fe5298db5c9d2a35d174