As the temporary truce in Gaza is held by a thread, another exchange of hostages for Palestinian prisoners is set to take place today. The deal will see eight hostages—three Israelis and five Thai nationals—freed in return for 110 Palestinians, including 32 serving life sentences. A fourth exchange is planned for Saturday, but uncertainty looms over the entire process.

The Palestinian resistance movement has warned that Israel’s failure to uphold its commitments, particularly regarding the entry of humanitarian aid, could jeopardise further releases. The dire humanitarian situation in Gaza remains unchanged, with displaced families returning to nothing but rubble. Without access to basic materials like cement or metal sheets, many are forced to build makeshift shelters from debris and plastic sheets, a cruel reflection of the devastation they endure.

Despite Israeli claims that aid is flowing into Gaza, the reality on the ground tells a different story. Food, medical supplies, and essential materials remain scarce. While families in the occupied West Bank await the release of their loved ones, Palestinians in Gaza continue to suffer under siege, with no real assurance that this ceasefire will lead to lasting relief.

The war, triggered by the events of October 7, has already claimed over 47,000 Palestinian lives, the vast majority civilians. Yet, beyond the statistics, it is the stories of loss, resilience, and survival that truly define this catastrophe. While some hostages return home, thousands of Palestinian families continue to mourn those lost in relentless airstrikes, with no accountability for the destruction wrought upon them.
As negotiations for a more permanent solution remain uncertain, one fact is undeniable: without justice and a true end to occupation, any truce will remain fragile, and the suffering of Palestinians will persist.