Hamas Accuses Israel of Sabotaging Ceasefire Agreement Amid Rising Tensions
Tel Aviv: In a dramatic policy shift, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has halted the planned release of over 600 Palestinian prisoners, dealing a fresh blow to the fragile ceasefire between Israel and Hamas in Gaza. The move has drawn sharp criticism from Hamas, which accuses Israel of deliberately undermining the peace process.
Hamas had recently released three Israeli hostages as part of the ongoing ceasefire deal. However, instead of reciprocating, Israel postponed the scheduled release of Palestinian detainees, citing concerns over Hamas using hostage releases for political purposes. Netanyahu’s office stated that no Palestinian prisoners would be freed unless Israeli hostages were returned without media coverage or public ceremonies.
Meanwhile, in the West Bank, hundreds of Palestinian families anxiously await the release of their loved ones, many of whom have been in detention for years. The delay has caused widespread distress, further eroding confidence in the ceasefire agreement.
Hamas strongly condemned Netanyahu’s decision, labeling it a deliberate act to derail the peace process. In response, the group released footage of two recently freed Israeli hostages who had witnessed Palestinian prisoners being released. The hostages urged their government to take immediate action to ensure the release of others still in captivity.
With tensions escalating once again, Netanyahu’s sudden policy reversal raises concerns over the future of the ceasefire and ongoing negotiations. The decision could further destabilize the already volatile situation, putting the region on edge.
