Israel has raised its military alert level after Hamas announced a postponement of a planned hostage release, escalating fears of renewed conflict in Gaza. The Palestinian group cited alleged Israeli violations of the ceasefire agreement, including restrictions on displaced families returning to northern Gaza and insufficient aid delivery, as reasons for the delay.
Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz declared Hamasâ move a âcomplete violationâ of the negotiated deal, ordering troops to prepare for âany possible scenario.â Meanwhile, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu convened emergency meetings amid accusations from both sides.
Hamasâ armed wing spokesperson Abu Obeida claimed the group upheld its obligations under the January 19 ceasefire but demanded Israel âcompensate for past failuresâ before resuming hostage exchanges. Over 20 hostages and hundreds of Palestinian detainees were released during the initial phase of the agreement.
Analysts warn the stalled negotiationsâfollowing inconclusive talks in Qatarâthreaten to derail a fragile peace process that paused 15 months of warfare. The development underscores ongoing volatility in the region as international observers urge restraint.
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Israel orders military readiness as Hamas to delay hostage release
cgtn.com
