Hamas has confirmed it will proceed with the planned release of three Israeli hostages on Saturday, raising hopes that the fragile ceasefire in Gaza will hold.
The Palestinian militant group had previously warned that it could delay the release, accusing Israel of not honoring parts of the ceasefire agreement, particularly regarding the entry of tents and shelters into Gaza.
In response to these tensions, U.S. President Donald Trump issued a stern warning that failure to meet the deadline for the hostages’ release would result in severe consequences for Hamas.
Efforts by Egypt and Qatar, who facilitated last month’s ceasefire, were instrumental in resolving the standoff. Hamas confirmed that its delegation met with Egyptian officials in Cairo and has been in ongoing discussions with Qatar’s prime minister regarding the delivery of essential supplies to Gaza, such as medicine, fuel, heavy equipment, and shelters.
The Israeli government also clarified its stance after a period of uncertainty sparked by Trump’s demands for the release of all remaining hostages by Saturday. David Mencer, a spokesperson for Israel, confirmed that the release of three hostages was expected as part of the agreement.
“There is a framework in place for the release of our hostages,” Mencer said. “That framework makes clear that three live hostages must be released by Hamas terrorists on Saturday.”
As of now, 73 of the 251 hostages taken by Hamas and its allies remain captive, with fears that many may have died during their detention.
