A fragile ceasefire in the Gaza Strip has begun to unravel just three weeks into its implementation, with both Israel and Hamas accusing each other of violating the agreement. The crisis began when Hamas threatened to postpone a scheduled hostage release on Saturday, citing Israeli actions that it claimed were delaying aid and medical supplies, as well as preventing the return of displaced people.
According to reports, 92 people have been killed in Israeli military operations since the ceasefire came into effect. Israel has denied the allegations, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu warning that if Hamas does not release all remaining hostages by Saturday, he will allow “hell” to break out in Gaza.
US President Donald Trump has suggested abandoning the multi-staged approach of the deal and giving Hamas an ultimatum to release all hostages at once. However, it remains unclear whether the ceasefire can hold, with experts citing a history of failed negotiations and high tensions between the two sides.
The crisis comes as Israel has criticized the appearance of released Palestinian hostages as “shocking,” leading to fears that many are in dire condition. Meanwhile, negotiations for the second and third phases of the deal have barely started, fueling doubts about its long-term viability.
As diplomatic efforts continue, it remains uncertain whether a new agreement can be reached to resolve the crisis. The situation is fraught with tension, and any further developments will likely have significant implications for regional stability.
Source: https://edition.cnn.com/2025/02/11/middleeast/israel-hamas-ceasefire-deal-intl/index.html