JERUSALEM:Israel has warned that Hamas must release three living hostages by this weekend or face a renewed military offensive in Gaza. This statement follows Hamas’ assertion that it remains committed to the existing ceasefire agreement.
Palestinian sources indicated progress in diplomatic efforts to maintain the truce, which faced a setback after Hamas refused to release hostages on Saturday, citing alleged Israeli violations. In response, Israel warned that failure to meet the agreed terms would lead to resumed military action.
The conflict lasted over 15 months before the ceasefire took effect on January 19.
Hamas spokesperson Abdel Latif al-Qanou stated that the group was committed to the agreement and urged Israel to adhere to its terms, adding that mediators were working to resume the exchange process.
Hamas reaffirmed its commitment to the planned exchange but Israel insisted that “three live hostages” must be released on Saturday as part of the ceasefire terms.
“If those three are not released, if Hamas does not return our hostages, by Saturday noon, the ceasefire will end,” Israeli government spokesperson David Mencer stated.
Hamas has previously accused Israel of delaying the delivery of heavy equipment needed for clearing debris from the conflict.
Meanwhile, at Egypt’s Rafah border crossing, bulldozers and mobile homes lined up, awaiting entry into Gaza to aid in rebuilding efforts. However, Israeli authorities later announced that the equipment would not be permitted to enter through Rafah.
According to the United Nations, around 69% of Gaza’s buildings have been damaged or destroyed during the war.
