Hamas has announced it will delay the release of hostages in the Gaza Strip, citing Israeli violations of the ceasefire agreement. According to Abu Obeida, a spokesperson for Hamas’ military wing, the group has been monitoring Israel’s actions and finds them to be in violation of the agreement. These actions include delaying the return of displaced Palestinians, targeting them with shelling and gunfire, and denying relief supplies.
As a result, the planned release of Israeli hostages on February 15, 2025, will be postponed until further notice. Hamas is seeking compensation for past weeks’ entitlements and wants Israel to commit retroactively. The group reaffirms its commitment to the terms of the agreement as long as Israel remains committed to them.
The six-week ceasefire between Israel and Hamas has seen several hostage releases since its inception. However, the latest announcement by Hamas has been met with criticism from Israeli officials, including Defense Minister Israel Katz and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The situation is becoming increasingly tense, with both sides at odds over the terms of the agreement.
Parents of an American who was murdered by Hamas have made a plea to former President Donald Trump for assistance in securing the safe release of their son’s body. The latest hostage release has sparked concerns among many, including the Hostages and Missing Families Forum, which is working to bring back the surviving victims of the October 7, 2023 attack.
Source: https://www.foxnews.com/world/hamas-says-delaying-next-hostage-release-claiming-ceasefire-violations