A fragile ceasefire between Israel and Hamas teeters on the brink of collapse amid allegations of violations from both sides. The agreement, brokered to facilitate the release of hostages and Palestinian prisoners, faces critical challenges as each party accuses the other of failing to uphold their commitments. With a looming deadline set by former U.S. President Donald Trump, who has urged Israel to abandon the ceasefire if all hostages are not returned by Saturday, tensions have intensified.
The ceasefire agreement, designed to bring a temporary halt to hostilities, included the release of nearly 2,000 Palestinian prisoners and hostages held by Hamas. Israel has already released around 656 prisoners, approximately a third of the agreed number. However, among the Palestinian prisoners, some were held without charge while others faced life sentences, adding complexity to the ongoing negotiations.
Hamas has released 16 out of the 33 hostages scheduled for release in the current phase of the agreement. Despite these efforts, accusations have arisen from both sides regarding breaches of the ceasefire. Hamas accused Israel of targeting Palestinians in various parts of Gaza with gunfire, claiming this violates the terms of the agreement. In response, Israel's Defense Minister Israel Katz condemned Hamas' decision to postpone further hostage releases as a "complete violation of the ceasefire agreement and the deal to release the hostages."
"A complete violation of the ceasefire agreement and the deal to release the hostages" – Israel Katz
The tensions escalated when Hamas threatened to delay the next phase of hostage releases due to alleged Israeli violations. This move prompted strong reactions from Israeli leadership and international figures. Former U.S. President Donald Trump expressed skepticism about Hamas meeting the Saturday deadline for returning hostages and urged Israel to take decisive action if the conditions are not met.
"As far as I’m concerned, if all of the hostages aren’t returned by Saturday at 12 o’clock – I think it’s an appropriate time – I would say, cancel it and all bets are off and let hell break out," – Donald Trump
"You’ll find out, and they’ll find out – Hamas will find out what I mean" – Donald Trump
Trump further cast doubt on the survival of many hostages, suggesting a grim outlook on their condition.
"I think a lot of the hostages are dead" – Donald Trump
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu echoed Trump's sentiment, emphasizing that if hostages are not returned by Saturday noon, Israel would resume intense military operations.
"If Hamas does not return our hostages by Saturday noon – the ceasefire will end, and the IDF will return to intense fighting until Hamas is completely defeated" – Benjamin Netanyahu
The first ceasefire in November 2023 lasted about a week, but since its imposition, Israeli military operations have resulted in the deaths of 92 people in the Gaza enclave. This backdrop of violence complicates ongoing negotiations for subsequent phases of the deal. An Israeli delegation visited Doha, Qatar, to engage in talks; however, an Israeli official indicated that discussions concerning the second phase of the deal have not progressed significantly.
Efforts to maintain peace are further strained by differences in expectations regarding hostage releases. The phased manner outlined in the deal contrasts with Trump's insistence on an immediate and complete return of all captives.
"All hostages ought to be returned, not two or three 'in drips and drabs'" – Donald Trump
Hamas spokesperson Abu Obeida reiterated their adherence to the agreement as long as Israel also complies.
"We affirm our commitment to the terms of the agreement as long as the occupation commits to them" – Abu Obeida
With both sides entrenched in their positions and external pressure mounting, the ceasefire's future remains uncertain. The international community watches closely as Saturday's deadline approaches, marking a potential turning point in this volatile conflict.
