Baghdad - The French News Agency has reported, citing a source close to Hamas, that the movement has agreed to extend the humanitarian truce in the Gaza Strip from two to four more days. The U.S. Deputy National Security Advisor, speaking to MSNBC, indicated that the extension of the deal hinges on Hamas's willingness to continue releasing hostages.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, the truce, now in its third day, saw the Red Cross receive a second batch of detainees yesterday, including 13 Israelis and 7 foreigners. Concurrently, Israel released 39 Palestinian prisoners. The progress in the exchange agreement was facilitated by Qatari and Egyptian efforts after initial stumbling blocks.