Hamas suspends hostage release, citing ceasefire violations

Hamas has announced it is delaying the release of Israeli hostages until further notice, claiming that Israel has violated the terms of the ceasefire agreement established last month.

Israel calls the move a violation of the ceasefire

In response, Israel has condemned the decision, calling it a “complete violation” of the deal and warning that its military is now on “the highest level of alert.”

“Hamas’ announcement to stop releasing Israeli hostages is a complete violation of the ceasefire agreement and the deal to release the hostages,” said Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz.

“I have instructed the IDF to prepare at the highest level of alert for any possible scenario in Gaza and to protect the communities. We will not allow a return to the reality of October 7.”

The next scheduled release of hostages was set for Saturday, which would have seen three more Israeli hostages freed by Hamas. In return, Israel was expected to release a number of Palestinian prisoners from Israeli custody. These exchanges have been ongoing as part of the ceasefire deal.

Hamas accuses Israel of failing to uphold the agreement

In its statement, Hamas accused Israel of violating the agreement by delaying the return of displaced Palestinians to northern Gaza, targeting civilians with shelling and gunfire, and failing to allow the entry of humanitarian aid in all agreed-upon forms.

“Over the past three weeks, the leadership of the resistance has monitored the enemy’s violations and its failure to comply with the terms of the agreement,” Hamas said.

“These violations include delaying the return of displaced persons to northern Gaza, targeting them with shelling and gunfire in various areas of the Strip, and failing to allow the entry of humanitarian aid in all its agreed-upon forms. Meanwhile, the resistance has fully honored its commitments.”

Hamas declared that the release of hostages will be postponed “until further notice” and will only resume once Israel complies with the agreed-upon terms.

Uncertain future for the ceasefire agreement

The sudden halt in hostage exchanges raises concerns over the stability of the ceasefire. Israel has yet to announce how it will respond to Hamas’ demands, but the situation remains tense.

Further developments are expected as negotiations continue between mediators.