In a significant development, Hamas has announced a delay in the release of additional hostages, citing ongoing negotiations and security concerns. The international community is closely monitoring the situation as efforts continue to secure the safe return of the hostages.
President Trump has issued a stern ultimatum, stating, “As far as I’m concerned, if all of the hostages aren’t returned by Saturday at 12 o’clock – I think it’s an appropriate time – I would say, cancel it and all bets are off and let hell break out,” he told reporters in the Oval Office after signing executive actions.
Hamas has accused Israel of violating the terms of the ceasefire agreement, which has led to the delay in releasing more hostages. According to Abu Obeida, the spokesperson for Hamas’ military wing, Israel has delayed allowing displaced Palestinians to return to northern Gaza, targeted Gazans with military shelling and gunfire, and stopped relief materials from entering the territory. Hamas has stated that they will not release any more hostages until Israel complies with the terms of the agreement and compensates for the past weeks. The next exchange of hostages was scheduled for Saturday, but it has been postponed until further notice.
The delay has heightened tensions in the region, with fears that the fragile truce could collapse. The ceasefire, which began on January 19, 2025, was seen as a potential turning point in the 16-month-long conflict. However, the recent developments have cast doubt on the future of the peace process.
Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz called the delay “a complete violation” of the ceasefire agreement, and he instructed the military to be on highest alert. The prime minister’s coordinator for hostages said the government intends to live up to its end of the deal. A later Hamas statement called the postponement a “warning signal” to Israel and noted that five days remained for mediators – the United States, Qatar, and Egypt – to pressure Israel to act: “The door remains open for the exchange to proceed as planned if Israel abides by its obligations.”
The situation remains fluid, and both sides are under pressure to find a resolution that will prevent further escalation and ensure the safe return of the hostages.
(With inputs from agencies)
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