Gaza: Palestinian resistance group Hamas announced its readiness to resume the release of Israeli captives on Saturday, contingent upon Israel's compliance with the terms of the Gaza ceasefire agreement. The statement underscores ongoing tensions and the fragile nature of the current truce.
According to Anadolu Agency, Hamas spokesman Abdul Latif al-Qanoua accused Israel of violating the agreement multiple times, such as obstructing the return of displaced individuals and blocking humanitarian aid. Al-Qanoua warned that the prisoner exchange will not proceed if Israel fails to adhere to the terms. He noted the positive signs regarding Israel's commitment but emphasized that Hamas will not tolerate any violations that could disrupt the exchange process.
Hamas reiterated its intention to release Israeli captives as stipulated in the agreement, following discussions with mediators Egypt and Qatar, who pledged to address existing obstacles. The group delayed the next hostage release earlier in the week in response to alleged Israeli violations, which included civilian shootings and restricted access to essential relief materials like tents and caravans for displaced Gazans.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu issued a warning to terminate the ceasefire deal if Hamas does not release the captives by Saturday noon. Meanwhile, a Hamas delegation led by Khalil al-Hayya engaged in talks with Egyptian and Qatari mediators to ensure all agreement terms are met, focusing on housing and the urgent delivery of medical supplies, fuel, and other relief materials.
Egypt's Al-Qahera News channel reported that mediation by Cairo and Doha had effectively addressed obstacles to the ceasefire's implementation, with commitments from both Hamas and Israel to complete the deal. However, Netanyahu's office denied reaching any understanding with Hamas, dismissing such reports as false. His spokesman, Omer Dostri, reaffirmed that no caravans or heavy equipment would be allowed into Gaza, contrary to the ceasefire agreement.
The ceasefire and prisoner exchange deal, active since January 19, halted an Israeli offensive that claimed more than 48,200 lives, predominantly women and children, and devastated the Palestinian enclave. To date, sixteen Israelis and five Thai workers have been released by Hamas in exchange for hundreds of Palestinian prisoners from Israeli jails as part of the agreement's initial phase.