The United States has expressed approval of the extension of the ceasefire in Gaza and hopes for its further continuation

The United States expressed support for the extension of the ceasefire between Israel and Hamas by an additional two days. White House National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby shared this sentiment with reporters, following Qatar’s announcement to prolong the initial four-day truce.

The U.S. is hopeful that this humanitarian break will be extended even further, contingent upon Hamas’s ongoing release of hostages. Kirby mentioned that Hamas has agreed to release an additional 20 women and children held in the Gaza Strip over the next two days.

However, Kirby indicated skepticism about the possibility of this truce evolving into a more lasting ceasefire in Gaza. He noted that the Israeli Defense Forces have clearly stated their intentions to resume targeting Hamas leadership once the pause ends.

President Biden, according to Kirby, believes that his administration’s approach is yielding positive results, both in terms of releasing hostages and delivering aid to civilians in Gaza facing harsh conditions. Biden was personally involved in overcoming a recent obstacle and securing the truce’s extension.

The conflict escalated following Hamas’s unprecedented attack on October 7, which Israel states resulted in the deaths of 1,200 people, mostly civilians, and the capture of around 240 hostages, including elderly individuals and children.

In retaliation, Israel initiated a heavy bombardment and ground assault in Gaza, governed by Hamas, which the Hamas administration claims has resulted in the deaths of 15,000 people, including thousands of children.