The announcement followed a last-minute standoff, with Hamas saying Israel had rejected a proposed list that included seven living captives and the remains of three who the group said were killed in Israeli airstrikes. Israel later said Hamas submitted an improved list, paving the way for the extension.
Follow the events as they happen in Operation Swords of Iron.
SSgt. Tomer Yaakov Ahimas, 20, Sgt. Kiril Brodski, 19, and Sgt. Shaked Dahan, 19, were killed by Hamas terrorists in the October 7 massacre
The fifth day of the hostage deal got underway as Hamas handed over 10 Israeli women and two other foreigners.
Initially, they ate “chicken with rice, all sorts of canned food and cheese,” Munder told Channel 13 News. “We were OK.”
None of the announcements specified how many hostages would be released under the extended agreement, but earlier the head of Egypt's State Information Service, Diaa Rashwan, said the deal being negotiated would include the release of 20 Israeli hostages from among those seized by Hamas during its Oct. 7 assault on southern Israel.
The Yemeni rebels had seized the Liberian-flagged Central Park, managed by Zodiac Maritime, in the Gulf of Aden, the company, the US and British militaries and private intelligence firm Ambrey said.
"There is a slight issue with today’s lists. The Qataris are working with both sides to resolve it and avoid delays," the official said.
Netanyahu says he is in favor of extending deal, essentially being in lockstep with Hamas, but vows to pursue the terrorist organization once its over.
US President Joe Biden was personally moved by the story of US citizen Avigail Idan and was visually happy when she was handed back to Israel on Sunday.