Egypt Daily News – Bassem Naim, a leader of the Palestinian Islamic Resistance Movement (Hamas), said on Sunday that any talks with Israel through mediators regarding further steps in the ceasefire agreement are contingent upon the release of Palestinian prisoners as agreed.
He added, “There will be no discussion with the enemy through mediators on any steps before the release of the prisoners agreed upon in exchange for the six Israeli captives.”
On Sunday, Israel announced that it had postponed the release of hundreds of Palestinian prisoners, which was scheduled for Saturday, until Hamas met its conditions.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office stated that Israel would not release the seventh batch of 620 Palestinian prisoners and detainees “before ensuring the release of the next group of hostages, and without humiliating ceremonies.”
This referred to Hamas’ recent handover processes, which UN officials said violated international law as they did not show respect for the hostages.
Hamas has made hostages appear on a stage before crowds, sometimes allowing them to speak before their release. Additionally, the movement has showcased coffins containing the remains of hostages in front of the crowds.
Naim responded, “Any discussion with the enemy through mediators regarding the next steps is conditional upon the release of the 620 Palestinian prisoners agreed upon, in exchange for the four bodies and the six Israeli captives who were freed last Saturday.”
He added, “Mediators must ensure that the enemy adheres to the terms of the agreement as stated in the text.”
The Palestinian Prisoners’ Club accused Israel of “terrorizing prisoners and their families.” Ghassan Washahi, whose brother was set to be released on Saturday, said his family was disappointed by the delay. Referring to his brother, he stated, “Every time we waited for the list of prisoners set for release, we hoped to see Islam’s name on it, but it never was.”
“Even my mother has started to lose hope that he will be released in this deal. And now, when his name finally appeared, Israel stopped the exchange.”
Israel and Hamas have repeatedly accused each other of violating the ceasefire since it took effect on January 19, but it remains in place. At one point, Hamas threatened to halt hostage releases due to what it called Israeli violations.
While the ceasefire has stopped the fighting, the prospects of ending the war remain uncertain.
Both sides have stated their intention to begin talks on a second phase, which mediators say aims to secure the return of all remaining hostages and the complete withdrawal of Israeli forces.
