Hamas delays next hostage release, alleging Israel violated ceasefire
Hamas spokesperson Abu Obeida announced on Monday that the terrorist group would be delaying the next planned release of hostages in the Gaza Strip, citing Israel’s violations of the ceasefire agreement. Obeida stated that Hamas had been monitoring Israel’s failure to fulfill its obligations under the agreement, including targeting displaced individuals with direct shelling and gunfire, as well as obstructing the entry of relief supplies into Gaza. In response to these violations, Hamas has decided to postpone the release of Israeli prisoners scheduled for February 15, 2025, until further notice.
The ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, which began six weeks ago, required Hamas to release 33 hostages captured in a 2023 attack in exchange for nearly 2,000 Palestinian prisoners. So far, five swaps have taken place, resulting in the release of 21 hostages and more than 730 Palestinian prisoners. The next exchange, which was set to take place next Saturday, would have seen three more Israeli hostages freed in exchange for hundreds of Palestinian prisoners.
Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz condemned Hamas’ decision to halt the release of hostages, calling it a violation of the ceasefire agreement and the hostage release deal. He instructed the Israeli Defense Forces to maintain readiness for any possible scenario in Gaza and to fortify the defense of Israeli communities. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is reportedly holding an immediate security assessment in response to Hamas’ announcement.
The Hostages and Missing Families Forum, a group dedicated to bringing the surviving victims of the 2023 attack home, issued a statement urging assistance from mediating countries to ensure the successful implementation of the existing deal. They expressed support for the Israeli government and emphasized the urgent need to rescue all remaining hostages from the dire situation they are facing.
President Donald Trump also weighed in on the conditions of the released Israeli hostages, expressing concern for their well-being. He remarked that they appeared gaunt and malnourished, likening their appearance to Holocaust survivors. Trump emphasized the need for swift action to address the situation and ensure the safe return of all hostages.
As tensions escalate between Israel and Hamas, the situation remains volatile. Both sides are on high alert, with the potential for further conflict looming. The fate of the remaining hostages hangs in the balance, as efforts continue to secure their release and bring an end to the ongoing crisis in the Gaza Strip.
