A senior Hamas official has accused Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of deliberately obstructing a ceasefire agreement after Israel delayed the release of hundreds of Palestinian prisoners.
Basem Naim told Al Jazeera that Hamas would not participate in further negotiations until Israel frees 620 detainees who were due for release on Saturday.
Also Read: FG Backs AU Reforms, Signs Sea Lift MOU for Maritime Support
The Israeli government postponed the exchange, initially planned for Sunday, citing Hamas-led ceremonies celebrating the release of Israeli captives as justification. Officials in Netanyahu’s office argued the events demeaned those freed and were being exploited for propaganda.
Mediators have urged both sides to push forward with talks to implement the next phase of the agreement. However, questions remain over the Israeli Prime Minister’s willingness to proceed.
The delay has raised concerns over the future of the ceasefire efforts, with tensions threatening to derail diplomatic efforts aimed at de-escalation.
Leave feedback about this
You must be logged in to post a comment.