Start of ‘humanitarian pause’ in Gaza to be announced within 24 hours: Qatar

ISTANBUL (AA) - Qatar on early Wednesday said that the start of a “humanitarian pause” between Israel and Hamas will be announced within 24 hours.

“The State of Qatar announces the success of its joint mediation efforts undertaken with the Arab Republic of Egypt and the United States of America between Israel and the Islamic Resistance Movement (Hamas), resulting in an agreement for a humanitarian pause,” the Qatari Foreign Ministry said on X.

“The starting time of the pause will be announced within the next 24 hours and last for four days, subject to extension,” it said.

“The agreement includes the release of 50 civilian women and children hostages currently held in the Gaza Strip in exchange for the release of a number of Palestinian women and children detained in Israeli prisons, the number of those released will be increased in later stages of implementing the agreement,” the ministry added.

Humanitarian aid including fuel will be allowed into the Gaza Strip.

“The State of Qatar affirms its commitment to ongoing diplomatic efforts to de-escalate tensions, stop the bloodshed, and protect civilians,” the ministry said.

“In this regard, the State of Qatar appreciates the efforts of the Arab Republic of Egypt and the United States of America in reaching this agreement,” it added.

*Writing by Mahmoud Barakat