A ceasefire in the ongoing conflict in the Gaza Strip has successfully held for a third consecutive day, allowing aid agencies to deliver critical supplies to the region. The truce, brokered with significant involvement from U.S. President Donald Trump, has also set the stage for the anticipated release of Israeli hostages and Palestinian prisoners. President Trump is scheduled to arrive in Israel on Monday, where he will meet with the families of hostages before heading to Egypt for a peace summit involving regional and international leaders.
Preparations for both the release of hostages and the flow of humanitarian aid have intensified. The Hamas-run Interior Ministry in Gaza has deployed thousands of police to areas from which the Israeli military has withdrawn. Reports indicate that armed police are providing security for aid trucks and enhancing the sense of safety among residents.
Humanitarian Aid Efforts Expand
Recent footage from the Associated Press showed dozens of trucks entering Gaza through the Rafah crossing, carrying essential supplies such as medical equipment, tents, blankets, food, and fuel, as confirmed by the Egyptian Red Crescent. These trucks are slated for inspection by Israeli forces at the Kerem Shalom crossing before proceeding into Gaza.
According to the Israeli defense body responsible for humanitarian aid, known as COGAT, the volume of aid entering Gaza is expected to increase to approximately 600 trucks per day, in alignment with the terms of the truce. On the same day, Egypt announced it would send an additional 400 aid trucks into the region, which will also undergo inspections.
Hostages and Prisoners: Upcoming Releases
In a significant development, a message from Gal Hirsch, Israel’s coordinator for hostages and the missing, indicated that families should prepare for the release of their loved ones starting Monday morning. This news has been confirmed by one of the families involved. Hirsch stated that preparations at hospitals and the Rei’im camp are complete to receive the living hostages.
Israeli officials estimate that approximately 20 out of 48 hostages held by Hamas and other factions in Gaza are still alive and are expected to be released on Monday. In tandem with this, arrangements are underway for the release of around 2,000 Palestinian prisoners held in Israel, which includes individuals serving life sentences and others detained without charge.
Dr. Mounir al-Boursh, Director General of the Ministry of Health in Gaza, revealed that health authorities are preparing for the return of these prisoners, many of whom may require urgent medical treatment. He also expressed hopes that the remains of medical personnel who died in Israeli detention would be among those returned.
In a related note, satellite imagery has documented a steady influx of Gazans returning home. On Saturday, vehicles were observed traveling north toward Gaza City, with many having sought refuge along the coast to avoid bombardments.
International Diplomatic Engagement
European leaders are also actively participating in the unfolding diplomatic efforts. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz will attend a signing ceremony in Egypt related to the ceasefire agreement, as stated by his spokesperson. The chancellor emphasized Germany’s commitment to maintaining a stable ceasefire while focusing on humanitarian assistance.
In addition to Chancellor Merz, Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis and Foreign Minister George Gerapetritis are expected to join the summit in Egypt, alongside Cyprus President Nikos Christodoulides and European Council President António Costa, representing the 27-nation bloc.
As the humanitarian situation in Gaza continues to evolve, the international community remains closely engaged, highlighting the urgent need for sustained dialogue and assistance to bring lasting peace to the region.
