Hamas has announced the postponement of the next hostage release scheduled to take place in Gaza on Saturday, citing Israel's alleged violation of the ceasefire agreement. The Qassam Brigades, Hamas' armed wing, stated that the handover of prisoners set for release will be delayed until further notice, pending Israel's compliance with the terms of the agreement.
Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz has responded to Hamas' decision by ordering the military to be on high alert for any potential developments in Gaza. He condemned the postponement as a breach of the ceasefire deal and the hostage release agreement.
Three hostages were released by Hamas on Saturday as part of the ongoing exchange, with 79 individuals still held captive since October 7, 2023. Only 20 of them were scheduled for release in the current phase, including eight who are reportedly deceased.
Israel reciprocated by releasing 183 Palestinian prisoners, including 18 serving life sentences. Most of the detainees had been held in Gaza without public charges since October 7. A second phase of negotiations, as outlined in a recent agreement signed in Qatar, was expected to commence on Monday.
Earlier on Monday, the Gaza Government Media Office, under Hamas control, accused Israel of obstructing the delivery of shelter supplies specified in the ceasefire agreement.
