Within Israel's government, splits emerged regarding the 4-day ceasefire Gaza truce deal to allow aid and free captives, a move praised internationally. Hardline National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir voted against it alongside other ministers saying, "The outline is a dangerous precedent, which changes the equation and may bring more events.” However, President Isaac Herzog backed the agreement saying, "The reservations are understandable, painful, and difficult, but given the circumstances I back and support the decision of the Prime Minister and the Government to move forward with the deal to release hostages." Herzog called it "a moral and ethical duty" to pursue prisoner releases through negotiations alongside military operations. Despite ministerial divisions, Israel will free 150 Palestinian women and children prisoners held in Israeli jails in return for 50 hostages held by Hamas. PM Benjamin Netanyahu said the "first hostages should be free within 48 hours" and the truce will extend "for every 10 more hostages released." The Israeli army, however, stated troops continue operating in Gaza, neutralizing a militant tunnel, identifying terrorists, and locating weapons during recent raids. The military also said it directed aircraft to keep striking "terrorist infrastructure" in Gaza. Meanwhile, Pope Francis declared Israel-Hamas violence has gone "beyond wars" into "terrorism", asserting "This is not war. This is terrorism." After talks with bereaved families, Francis said "I heard directly how 'both sides are suffering' in the conflict."