Hamas has announced a delay in the hostage release scheduled for Saturday in Gaza. The group claims Israel violated key ceasefire terms, prompting them to postpone the handover “until further notice.”
Israel Accused of Violating Ceasefire
Abu Obeida, spokesman for Hamas’ Qassam Brigades, said that the prisoner handover will not proceed as planned. He accused Israel of violating the ceasefire, citing actions such as delaying the return of displaced people to northern Gaza, targeting civilians, and restricting the entry of vital relief supplies.
Obeida stated that Hamas remains committed to the deal as long as Israel adheres to the terms. However, the group demanded compensation for what it views as breaches from the past weeks.
Israel Responds to Postponement
In response, Israel has expressed strong disapproval of Hamas’ decision. Defense Minister Israel Katz instructed the Israeli military to prepare for “any possible scenario” in Gaza. Israeli officials consider the delay a “complete violation” of the ceasefire agreement and the hostage release deal.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is holding urgent consultations with security officials to assess the situation. A political-security cabinet meeting that was originally scheduled for Tuesday has been moved up to address the new development.
Families of Hostages Request Urgent Intervention
Families of those still held hostage are growing increasingly desperate. The Hostage and Missing Families Forum has urged mediating countries, including the U.S. and Qatar, to intervene and ensure that the terms of the ceasefire agreement are followed.
The forum’s statement called for the immediate implementation of the deal to ensure the safe return of the hostages. The families stressed that time is critical as hostages continue to endure harsh conditions.
Hostage Release Agreement Status
As of now, Hamas has released 16 Israeli hostages under the ceasefire agreement. In exchange, Israel released 183 Palestinian prisoners. However, 73 Israeli hostages remain in Gaza, along with three additional hostages taken in 2014.
Under the deal brokered by Qatar and the U.S., negotiations for the second phase were set to begin on Monday but have now been delayed indefinitely. Both sides continue to accuse each other of violations, raising doubts about the future of the ceasefire.
