Gaza: The Palestinian resistance group Hamas warned Thursday that failure to implement recent understandings with the US on a Gaza ceasefire and the entry of humanitarian aid will harm efforts to advance prisoner exchange negotiations. In a statement, Hamas said Monday's release of Israeli American soldier Edan Alexander was part of efforts to open Gaza's crossings and alleviate the suffering of Palestinians in the enclave.

According to Anadolu Agency, Hamas emphasized the necessity of the US fulfilling its commitments for humanitarian aid to begin entering Gaza immediately, for a permanent ceasefire to be established, and for comprehensive negotiations on all issues to ensure security and stability in the region. Hamas cautioned that failure to achieve these steps will hinder the progress of ongoing negotiations concerning the prisoner exchange process.

Mediators have been engaged in discussions with Israeli and Hamas delegations in Doha, Qatar, aiming to secure a Gaza ceasefire and a prisoner swap agreement. These negotiations include US Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff and President Trump's envoy for hostage affairs, Adam Boehler.

Israel currently estimates that 58 Israeli hostages remain in Gaza, with 21 still alive. In contrast, over 9,900 Palestinians are detained in Israeli prisons, where they reportedly endure severe conditions, including torture, starvation, and medical neglect, leading to numerous deaths, as reported by Palestinian and Israeli human rights and media sources.

The Israeli army has been conducting an offensive on the Gaza Strip since October 7, 2023, resulting in the deaths of more than 53,000 Palestinians, most of whom are women and children. The International Criminal Court issued arrest warrants last November for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant for war crimes and crimes against humanity in Gaza. Additionally, Israel is currently facing a genocide case at the International Court of Justice for its actions in the enclave.