Hamas Suspends Hostage Exchange, Accuses Israel of Violating Agreement
What Are the Allegations?
According to Hamas, Israel has violated the truce in four key ways:
- Failure to allow displaced Palestinians to return to northern Gaza.
- Continued military actions—shelling and shootings resulting in civilian casualties.
- Blocking humanitarian aid, including tents, mobile homes, fuel, and equipment to clear debris and retrieve bodies.
- Obstructing the entry of medical supplies and essential resources needed for hospitals.
Human rights groups report that since the ceasefire began, over 100 Palestinians have been killed, and hundreds of humanitarian aid trucks remain blocked from entering Gaza.
Reactions from Both Sides
— Hamas demands full adherence to the agreement, calling the delay in the hostage release a warning signal.
— The group announced the suspension five days in advance, allowing mediators time to pressure Israel into compliance.
— Israeli officials confirm that Hamas has upheld the agreement, while evidence suggests Israel has violated its terms.
— Meanwhile, Knesset members blame Netanyahu, accusing him of sabotaging the deal and endangering hostages.
Israel Prepares for War
As tensions rise, the IDF has canceled soldiers’ leave, signaling preparations for a resumption of hostilities.
Donald Trump warned:
A Pattern of Broken Ceasefires
Israel and Hamas have signed at least five ceasefire agreements in the past – in 2008, 2012, 2014, 2019, and 2021. Each time, events have followed a similar pattern:
— Hamas generally adheres to the terms.
— Israel, in most cases, does not.
The coming days will be crucial for determining the next phase of the conflict.
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