ALWAGHT- Hamas has vowed to uphold the ceasefire agreement, which took effect on Sunday, in exchange for the release of hundreds of Palestinian prisoners arbitrarily detained in Israeli prisons.
The ceasefire agreement, announced on Wednesday, officially took effect on Sunday after a delay during which Israeli forces killed 19 Palestinians in Gaza. Under the first phase of the deal, Hamas is set to release 33 captives over six weeks, starting with three female Israeli captives on Sunday. Hamas reaffirmed its commitment to the agreement, describing it as a result of the steadfast resistance of the Palestinian people and their sacrifices during 471 days of conflict.
Hamas highlighted its anticipation of Tel Aviv releasing 90 Palestinian prisoners, including women and children, as part of the agreement’s initial phase. The group also emphasized its role in overseeing the delivery of aid and relief to Gaza, with hundreds of aid trucks waiting at the Rafah border crossing, which has been closed since May.
The ceasefire represents a vital opportunity for humanitarian aid to reach Gaza, addressing the severe needs caused by the ongoing conflict. While rights groups view the agreement as a positive step, they stress that much more is needed to tackle the overwhelming humanitarian, medical, and psychological challenges faced by the people of Gaza.
