According to CNBC News (click here) there are a total of 41 hostages released including a 4 year old American-Israeli child who lost both her parents in the initial attack by Hamas. I hope there are other family members able to care for Abigail Mor Edan.
There appears to be success in protecting the hostages during this time while Israel dismantles the Hamas tunnel system. While some hostages remain in danger it appears Hamas is respecting some aspect of the Geneva Convention that provides for prisoners.
I congratulate President Biden in limiting any escalation of this war which also includes some very level headed approach from other countries in the region. The response for calm by many Islamic Clerics and Imams has also contributed to this four day ceasefire and hostage release.
Israel has stated there would be a one day extension of the ceasefire for every ten hostages released over the agreed 50. It would be good if that occurred while Palestinian prisoner release continues and further talks continue to provide security to Israel and the Palestinian people away from being human shields.
It is an optimistic time. It would be best to continue the peace and resolve to end any threat to the people in this region of the world.
