On Day One of Gaza cease-fire, Hamas and Israel carry out first swap of hostages and prisoners
Korea HeraldNOV 2023
Israel, Hamas Complete Second Hostage-Prisoner Exchange
Image copyright: Alexi J. Rosenfeld/Getty Images
The Spin
Narrative A
The drama around the second hostage-prisoner swap has exposed the fragile nature of this short-term temporary ceasefire agreement, as neither Hamas nor Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu can afford to extend a pause in hostilities. The pro-Palestinian militant group ruling the Gaza Strip would lose leverage over Israel if all hostages were freed, and Israel's ultimate goal is to eliminate Hamas from the region.
Narrative B
It was anticipated that the ceasefire would not progress smoothly, especially due to the degree of animosity and lack of trust between Israel and Hamas. However, this second successful exchange boosts optimism for extending the deal beyond four days. While Hamas would like the temporary truce to become permanent, to recover from Israel's seven-week-long assault, Israel want to bring its citizens home before the war is resumed.