More Hostages Were Released From Gaza

Twelve hostages who had been held captive by Hamas since its Oct. 7 attack on Israel were released today, as the cease-fire entered a fifth day and appeared to be holding. Not long afterward, the Israeli authorities said they had released another 30 imprisoned Palestinians.

The release of the hostages came just hours after the two sides accused each other of violating their truce for the first time since it went into effect last Friday. Israel said that explosive devices were detonated near its troops in two places in northern Gaza. Hamas said its fighters had engaged in a “field clash” provoked by Israel. But neither side suggested that it might pull out of the agreement. Here’s the latest .

Officials have raised their expectations that both sides will agree to more short extensions. The truce has succeeded in freeing dozens of hostages — a central Israeli objective — while also allowing aid into Gaza and giving Palestinians a break from the hostilities. But the longer that dynamic lasts, the greater Israel’s conundrum : Each daily prisoner release boosts Hamas’s popularity, and a long pause slows the momentum of Israel’s invasion, endangering its stated goal of removing Hamas from power.

In the U.S., administration officials say they have warned Israel to fight more surgically. Also, President Biden has faced anger among supporters and even from some staff members over his solidarity with Israel.