Gaza city: The Palestinian group Hamas called on international actors on Monday to pressure Israel to honor its ceasefire commitments in Gaza, saying it is working to complete the handover of Israeli hostages' remains despite major challenges.

According to Anadolu Agency, Hamas spokesman Hazem Qassem stated in a press release on the group's Telegram channel that Hamas is adhering to the ceasefire terms, especially the initial phase involving the handover of all living captives. Qassem emphasized the group's daily efforts to transfer the remains of Israeli captives but noted the significant hurdles due to Gaza's extensive destruction.

The ceasefire agreement, which began on October 10 following a plan presented by US President Donald Trump, has already seen Hamas release 20 living Israeli hostages and return the remains of 13 more in exchange for nearly 2,000 Palestinian prisoners. Qassem accused Israel of intentionally bombing areas where hostages were held during the conflict.

He highlighted the lack of heavy machinery necessary to clear rubble as a major barrier in delivering the remains, a point Hamas has communicated to mediators. The group remains in regular contact with mediators, including the US, regarding Israel's repeated ceasefire violations.

Qassem urged all parties interested in regional calm to pressure Israel to honor its ceasefire obligations. He accused Israel of using aid as a tool for political blackmail and threatening Palestinians with starvation. Furthermore, he claimed that Israel continues its policy of starvation against Palestinians in the Gaza Strip.

The Gaza government's media office reported that since the ceasefire took effect, there have been 80 Israeli ceasefire violations, resulting in 97 Palestinian deaths and 230 injuries. According to the Gaza Health Ministry, Israel's actions since October 2023 have resulted in over 68,200 deaths and more than 170,000 injuries in Gaza.