Hamas has announced a delay in the planned release of Israeli hostages, claiming Israel has violated the ceasefire agreement. The ceasefire, which took effect on January 19, 2025, was established to allow the exchange of hostages and prisoners between the two sides. However, tensions have risen over accusations of non-compliance with the agreement’s terms.
Hamas’ military wing spokesperson, Abu Obeida, stated that Israel has consistently breached the agreement over the past three weeks. The violations allegedly include Israel’s failure to allow displaced Palestinians to return to northern Gaza, continued airstrikes and gunfire in various parts of the region, and delays in permitting the entry of humanitarian aid. Hamas insists that until these concerns are addressed, the next round of hostage exchanges will not proceed as planned.
Israel has denied these accusations, with Defense Minister Israel Katz condemning Hamas’ actions and insisting that Israel has upheld its end of the agreement. Katz stated that Hamas is using excuses to stall the release of hostages and is acting in bad faith. In response to Hamas’ decision, Katz has ordered the military to remain on high alert along the Gaza border.
Since the ceasefire began, five rounds of exchanges have taken place, leading to the release of 21 Israeli hostages and over 730 Palestinian prisoners. The next exchange, originally scheduled for Saturday, was expected to see the release of three Israeli hostages in exchange for hundreds of Palestinian prisoners. With the delay, uncertainty looms over whether the agreement will hold.
The international community is closely monitoring the situation, as concerns grow over the potential collapse of the ceasefire. If the agreement fails, a resumption of hostilities between Israel and Hamas could be imminent.
