Hamas announced a postponement of the scheduled release of Israeli hostages, citing alleged violations of the ceasefire agreement by Israel. The release was planned for Saturday as part of an ongoing exchange program involving Palestinian prisoners.
Israel’s Defense Minister Israel Katz termed the announcement a “complete violation of the ceasefire agreement” and directed the Israel Defense Forces to maintain maximum alertness for potential scenarios in Gaza.
Former U.S. President Donald Trump weighed in on the situation, suggesting the ceasefire should end if all hostages aren’t released by Saturday. “If hostages were not released, all hell is going to break out,” Trump stated, though emphasizing he was speaking personally and Israel could make its own decisions.
Currently, 76 hostages remain in Gaza, including 73 taken during Hamas’s October 7, 2023, attack and three from earlier incidents. The delay announcement coincided with a gathering in Tel Aviv marking the 24th birthday of Alon Ohel, who was captured from the Nova festival during the October attack.
Hamas spokesperson Abu Obeida listed several grievances, including alleged Israeli delays in allowing displaced Palestinians to return to northern Gaza, military incidents, and issues with humanitarian aid delivery. Hamas indicated the exchange could proceed Saturday if Israel “complies” with its obligations.
The development follows recent tensions, including Israel’s two-day delay in allowing Palestinian returns to northern Gaza and temporary holds on prisoner releases. Hamas also slightly exceeded the deadline for providing Saturday’s hostage list while claiming Israel hadn’t met humanitarian aid commitmentsโa claim that contradicts UN reports of a “massive surge” in aid.
Since the ceasefire began on January 19, 16 Israeli and five Thai hostages have been freed in exchange for 566 prisoners. The first phase of the ceasefire aims to exchange 33 hostages (eight confirmed deceased) for 1,900 prisoners over three weeks.
The October 7 attack by Hamas resulted in 251 hostages taken and approximately 1,200 Israeli casualties. Israel’s subsequent military response has led to at least 48,000 Palestinian deaths, according to Hamas-run health ministry figures.
UN spokesperson Farhan Haq emphasized the importance of all parties adhering to previously agreed timelines and commitments to maintain the fragile ceasefire.
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