Israel-Hamas Ceasefire Delayed as Hostage List Remains Unresolved
The much-anticipated ceasefire between Israel and Hamas faces delays as Israel’s military confirms it has yet to receive a list of 33 Palestinian hostages to be freed. The Israeli Defense forces (IDF) continue their offensive in Gaza, targeting what they describe as “terrorist infrastructure” in northern and central Gaza. In a statement on X, the IDF emphasized its readiness to defend Israeli citizens, stating, “A short time ago, IDF artillery and aircraft destroyed several terrorist targets in northern Gaza and central Gaza. The IDF remains ready in attack and defense and will not allow any harm to Israeli citizens.”
Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari, an Israeli military spokesman, clarified that the ceasefire deal hinges on Hamas fulfilling its obligations.”As of this morning, Hamas has not fulfilled its obligations and, contrary to the agreement, has not provided Israel with the names of the returned female hostages. The cease-fire will not take effect until hamas fulfills its commitment,” Hagari said.
The ceasefire, brokered with the assistance of Qatar, was set to begin at 8:30 AM local time on Sunday and was expected to last for 42 days. However, Hamas attributed the delay in providing the hostage list to “technical reasons,” while reaffirming its commitment to the agreement.
israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu echoed the military’s stance,emphasizing that Israel would not proceed with the ceasefire until it receives the list of hostages. In a post on X, Netanyahu stated, “We will not proceed with the agreement until we receive the list of hostages to be released as agreed. Israel will not tolerate treaty violations. Hamas is fully responsible.”
According to Reuters,the deal involves the release of 33 out of 98 Israeli hostages abducted by Hamas,alongside the release of 2,000 Palestinian prisoners held in Israeli jails.
Key Points of the Ceasefire Agreement
| Aspect | Details |
|————————–|—————————————————————————–|
| Hostages to be Released | 33 Israeli hostages, 2,000 Palestinian prisoners |
| ceasefire Start Time | 8:30 AM local time on Sunday (pending Hamas’ fulfillment of obligations) |
| Duration | 42 days |
| Broker | Qatar |
The situation remains tense as both sides navigate the complexities of the agreement. While Israel insists on strict adherence to the terms, Hamas maintains its commitment to the deal despite the delays.As the world watches, the resolution of this conflict hinges on the swift exchange of hostages and the cessation of hostilities. For now, the ceasefire remains in limbo, with the fate of countless lives hanging in the balance.
