Just as the December issue of The Shofar was readied for distribution, news came of a breakthrough in the tense situation of the long-awaited release of hostages held by Hamas.

In exchange for the two dozen released from Gaza, Israel released 39 imprisoned Palestinians, completing the first exchange brought about during the temporary truce that halted the fighting after seven weeks, The New York Times reported.

The hostages released included 13 Israelis, several children among them, as well as 10 Thais and one Filipino.

Israel has said it would extend the cease-fire by a day for every 10 additional hostages that Hamas releases.

This is a developing story. Readers are advised to follow the news media for updates.