Israel releases 30 Palestinian prisoners in exchange

 

A woman smiles as she is welcomed after being released from prison by Israel, in the West Bank town of Ramallah, early Thursday. International mediators on Wednesday worked to extend the truce in Gaza, encouraging Hamas militants to keep freeing hostages in exchange for the release of Palestinian prisoners and further relief from Israel's air and ground offensive. (AP Photo/Nasser Nasser)

Israel released 30 Palestinian prisoners Thursday as part of another exchange for hostages with Hamas.  

A bus filled with the prisoners was welcomed in the West Bank early Friday when it arrived in the city of Ramallah. The release came hours after the release of eight hostages held captive by Hamas in Gaza.  

Dozens of men, some holding green Hamas flags, greeted the prisoners. The men were hugged and the crowd chanted, “God is great.”

The exchanges have been taking place each night since last Friday as part of a cease-fire deal between Israel and Hamas. 

The cease-fire is set to expire Friday morning, but international mediators have been working to extend the halt in fighting. Israel has vowed to resume its offensive against Hamas once the truce ends.