The fragile ceasefire in Gaza faced a setback as Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz issued a stern warning to Hamas, declaring that “all hell will break loose” if the group does not release hostages as agreed. Katz’s statement comes amid accusations from Hamas that Israel has failed to meet its commitments under the truce, leading to delays in the release of hostages.
The ceasefire, in place since January 19, required Hamas to release 33 hostages taken during the group’s October 7, 2023, attack on Israel. So far, 21 hostages have been freed, while Israel has also released hundreds of Palestinian prisoners. However, Hamas claimed that Israel had not delivered adequate humanitarian aid, including tents, as part of the agreement, leading to uncertainty over the next phase of hostage releases.
Despite the deadlock, Hamas official Mahmoud Merdawi indicated that there were “positive signals” of progress, but that the group had not received formal assurances from Israel. An Egyptian official involved in mediation efforts also suggested that both sides were close to an agreement, with Israel reportedly agreeing to provide additional aid. Israeli officials, however, have not commented on the specific claims, maintaining that they are fulfilling their obligations.
Escalating Tensions
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has responded to the impasse by ordering additional troops around Gaza, signaling the possibility of renewed military action if Hamas does not comply with the hostage release agreement. Katz reiterated this stance, stating that any further delays would mean the collapse of the deal and a return to war.
“If Hamas stops releasing the hostages, then there is no deal and there is war,” Katz stated during a visit to a military command center. His comments also referenced former US President Donald Trump’s controversial suggestion of relocating Palestinians from Gaza to neighboring countries, further intensifying tensions.
Hamas rejected Israel’s threats, insisting that Israel must first uphold its end of the ceasefire agreement by delivering promised aid. Hamas spokesperson Hazem Kassem accused Israel of failing to meet the truce conditions and jeopardizing peace efforts.
Meanwhile, Trump’s proposal to move Palestinians out of Gaza has been met with fierce opposition from Jordan and Egypt, both of which have rejected the idea of absorbing Gaza’s population. The proposal has added another layer of complexity to the already fragile ceasefire negotiations.
Sources By Agencies
