Mediators look to extend truce in Gaza on its final day, with one more hostage swap planned

By NAJIB JOBAIN, SAMY MAGDY and MELANIE LIDMAN
Associated Press

RAFAH, Gaza Strip (AP) — International mediators worked Wednesday to extend the truce in Gaza, which will otherwise expire within a day. Israel says it will maintain the truce if Hamas keeps freeing hostages, but its other major goal, the annihilation of the militant group, could be slipping out of reach. The United States, Israel’s top ally, says that if it resumes its offensive it must operate with greater precision to spare civilians, an approach that is unlikely to bring Hamas to its knees anytime soon. Another exchange of militant-held hostages for Palestinians imprisoned by Israel is planned for Wednesday.