Hamas Announces Planned Release of Israeli Hostages on Schedule, Reducing Gaza Cease-Fire Risks
The terrorist group Hamas, which captured 250 Israelis during its Oct. 7, 2023 assaults, announced that it would release three additional hostages on Saturday as per the agreed terms.
On Thursday, Hamas stated it would release three more Israeli captives on Saturday as planned, resolving a dispute that could have jeopardized the fragile cease-fire in Gaza.
Hamas had threatened to postpone the release of hostages, citing alleged violations by Israel such as hindering the provision of tents and shelters among other accusations during the truce.
The terrorist group noted that mediators from Egypt and Qatar assured that they would work towards resolving any obstacles and ensuring the implementation of the cease-fire agreement.
Hamas confirmed that its delegation engaged in discussions with Egyptian officials in Cairo and held talks with Qatar’s prime minister regarding the urgent need for additional shelters, medical supplies, fuel, and equipment for debris clearance in Gaza.
Egypt and Qatar aided in brokering the cease-fire, which took effect in January after a 15-month war.
The conflict initiated on Oct. 7, 2023, by Hamas, involved sending gunmen across the border resulting in the deaths of 1,200 Israelis.
According to the Hamas-controlled health ministry in Gaza, around 46,000 Palestinians lost their lives during the course of the conflict.
Up to now, 21 Israeli hostages have been released in exchange for over 730 Palestinian detainees.
Israel estimates that among the roughly 70 remaining hostages, 34 may have perished.
Israel has yet to comment on Hamas’ most recent announcement. Netanyahu previously warned that failure to return the hostages by noon Saturday would result in the cease-fire being voided and the IDF resuming combat operations until Hamas is decisively defeated.
Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz cautioned that a failure to release the hostages would constitute a breach of the cease-fire agreement and the hostage release deal.
President Donald Trump indicated on Feb. 10 that Israel held the decision on whether to uphold the agreement, suggesting that the cease-fire should be terminated if Hamas failed to release the remaining captives in Gaza by Saturday.
This is a developing story, updates will follow.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
