The planned ceasefire in Gaza has been delayed as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced that Hamas failed to provide the agreed list of hostages to be released. The list, expected to include three Israeli hostages, was a key condition for initiating the ceasefire, reports FRE.
Celebrations began prematurely in Gaza, with some residents attempting to return home despite delays in implementing the agreement, highlighting the fragility of the truce. The ceasefire aims to end the 15-month war and secure the release of nearly 100 hostages taken during Hamas’ October 7, 2023, assault on Israel.
Israeli military spokesperson Daniel Hagari confirmed ongoing strikes in Gaza, asserting operations would continue until Hamas fulfills its commitments. Meanwhile, Hamas cited “technical reasons on the ground” for its delay but reaffirmed its commitment to the agreement.
The first phase of the ceasefire includes releasing 33 hostages from Gaza and hundreds of Palestinian prisoners held in Israel, alongside increased humanitarian aid to Gaza. However, questions remain regarding the long-term sustainability of peace and the governance of Gaza post-conflict.
The war has caused over 46,000 Palestinian fatalities and displaced more than 90% of Gaza’s 2.3 million residents. Reconstruction efforts, if the ceasefire holds, could take years, with UN officials highlighting the extensive damage to healthcare, infrastructure, and essential systems.
