The eagerly anticipated ceasefire in Gaza has hit a snag as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced that it won’t commence until Hamas delivers a list of hostages to be released.
Originally scheduled to begin at 6:30 a.m. GMT, the ceasefire was intended to halt the ongoing conflict in the region. However, Netanyahu stated on Sunday that the pause in hostilities is contingent upon Hamas fulfilling its commitment.
“The prime minister instructed the IDF (military) that the ceasefire, which is scheduled to take effect at 8:30 a.m., will not begin until Israel has received the list of released hostages, as Hamas has committed to providing,” Netanyahu’s office said in a statement.
Hamas, the Palestinian militant group controlling Gaza, cited “technical reasons” for the delay in providing the list. The group has yet to publicly respond to Netanyahu’s ultimatum.
The ceasefire agreement, brokered with international assistance, aims to provide much-needed relief to civilians caught in the crossfire. The delay adds uncertainty for those hoping for a respite from the violence.
As the situation develops, global attention remains fixed on Gaza, with hopes that a resolution can be reached swiftly to prevent further escalation and alleviate humanitarian concerns.
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Netanyahu says ceasefire won't start unless Hamas gives hostage list
cgtn.com
