Israel Urges Hamas to Release Captives as Mediators Attempt to Save Ceasefire
Israel has conveyed to Hamas, via Egypt and Qatar, the necessity of releasing three captives by Saturday for the Gaza ceasefire to remain intact. This communication follows conflicting statements from US and Israeli officials regarding the hostages. Meanwhile, Hamas has cited Israeli violations of the ceasefire as reasons for delays in the release, prompting diplomatic efforts from Egypt and Qatar to salvage the agreement.
On February 13, 2025, reports emerged that Israel communicated through Egypt and Qatar, requesting Hamas to release three captives by the upcoming Saturday to maintain the Gaza ceasefire. This message, if confirmed, could clarify previous mixed signals from the US and Israel concerning the captives. US President Donald Trump threatened Hamas with severe consequences unless captives were returned by Saturday noon.
The ceasefire, established with the involvement of Egypt, Qatar, and the US, mandates Hamas to proceed with the release of three captives. Following President Trump’s ultimatum, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has issued varying statements regarding the number of required hostages, shifting from demanding “all hostages” to specifying the need for “nine hostages.”
Hamas reaffirmed its dedication to upholding the ceasefire while highlighting obstacles posed by Israeli violations, which included fatalities among Palestinians and delays in critical humanitarian aid. They indicated that the return of displaced persons to northern Gaza has also been hindered, complicating negotiations.
In response to Trump’s controversial remarks suggesting a plan for the US to displace Palestinians to Egypt and Jordan, Hamas expressed their grievances regarding Israel’s lack of cooperation in providing necessary medical supplies and resources for essential services. The ongoing tensions appear to threaten the fragile ceasefire.
Egypt has expressed dissatisfaction with statements from Israeli and American officials regarding the Palestinian situation, emphasizing the need for constructive dialogue. Netanyahu warned of a potential return to “intense fighting” should the captives not be released by the specified deadline.
Efforts are underway to facilitate international aid delivery, with reports indicating that approval has been granted for humanitarian supplies, although the transport of essential caravans and tents remains pending.
The success of the ceasefire depends on Israel permitting the delivery of these necessities while Hamas must announce the names of the captives slated for release. Hamas’ leader, Khalil Al-Hayya, is currently in Cairo seeking to rejuvenate diplomatic discussions.
Simultaneously, Egypt and Qatar are intensifying their diplomatic efforts in order to preserve the ceasefire agreement, emphasizing that its collapse could unleash renewed violence with far-reaching consequences in the region. Since the ceasefire initiated on January 19, 2025, it has led to several exchanges of prisoners, reflecting ongoing negotiations aimed at maintaining peace in the area.
In conclusion, the recent communications between Israel and Hamas underscore the precarious nature of the ongoing ceasefire agreement. The pivotal demand for the release of captives highlights the tensions and complexities shaping diplomatic efforts, with both sides under significant pressure from international stakeholders. Continued negotiations facilitated by Egypt and Qatar remain critical to averting a resumption of violence in the region.
Original Source: www.egypttoday.com
