Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has postponed the release of 620 Palestinian prisoners pending the completion of the release of Israeli captives held by Hamas. He justified this delay by demanding an end to what he termed 'humiliating ceremonies' that Hamas has conducted during prior exchanges. This move has drawn sharp criticism from Hamas, which accuses Netanyahu of violating the ceasefire agreement and playing tactical games. The situation continues to escalate, with grave humanitarian implications unfolding in Gaza as aid remains restricted and violence persists.
In light of Hamas' repeated violations including the disgraceful ceremonies that dishonour our hostages and the cynical use of hostages for propaganda, it has been decided to delay the release of terrorists that was planned for yesterday until the release of the next hostages is ensured, without the humiliating ceremonies, Netanyahu's office said in a statement.
Hamas accused Netanyahu of playing dirty games to sabotage and undermine the ceasefire, emphasizing that their commitment to the deal remains strong despite external delays.
Over 100 Palestinians have been killed in the first phase of the ceasefire, and much of the agreed humanitarian aid was not allowed into Gaza... We are committed to the deal, and we have abided by all our obligations, he said.
Netanyahuâs latest demands, not articulated in the original ceasefire agreement, reflect a strategic shift in negotiations and potentially further complicate an already fragile peace process.
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