Hamas has delayed the release of three Israeli hostages scheduled for Saturday, blaming Israel’s alleged violations of a six-week ceasefire agreement. The decision was announced by Hamas’ military wing spokesperson, Abu Obeida, who accused Israel of systematically violating the ceasefire over the past three weeks.
Israel’s Defense Minister, Israel Katz, condemned the delay as “a complete violation” of the ceasefire and instructed the Israeli military to be on high alert. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is consulting with security officials to address the situation.
The delay has sparked concerns among hostage families, including Ofer Kalderon, who was released earlier this month after being held in dark tunnels for months without access to news or proper care. Dr. Hagai Levine, a doctor working with hostage families, warned that delaying their release is “a matter of life and death.”
Hamas’ announcement comes amid ongoing tensions between the two parties. Egyptian officials reiterated their rejection of proposals to transfer Palestinians from Gaza and the West Bank, warning that such moves would threaten stability in the region.
The delay has also raised concerns about the treatment of hostages, with reports emerging of brutal conditions in captivity. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan rejected a US proposal to relocate Palestinians from Gaza, saying it was unacceptable to force them to leave their homes after thousands of years.
Source: https://www.yahoo.com/news/middle-east-latest-turkeys-erdogan-094855835.html