ALWAGHT- Hamas has paused ceasefire talks with Israel via mediators, demanding that negotiations resume only after Israel releases 620 Palestinian prisoners, a condition previously agreed upon, a senior Hamas official said on Sunday.
Israel delayed the planned release of 620 Palestinian prisoners on Saturday, claiming that Hamas had not yet fulfilled its conditions. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office stated that the prisoners would not be freed until the release of additional hostages was guaranteed and without public celebrations.
Hamas official Basem Naim insisted that further negotiations through mediators depend on Israel honoring its agreement to release the prisoners in exchange for four bodies and six Israeli captives freed on Saturday. The Palestinian Prisoner’s Society condemned Israel’s actions, accusing it of using “state terrorism” against prisoners and their families.
Despite the temporary ceasefire, a lasting resolution to the conflict remains uncertain. Netanyahu and former war minister Yoav Gallant continue to face accusations of war crimes related to Israel’s military actions in Gaza. Meanwhile, the Palestinian death toll has risen to at least 61,709, with thousands still missing under the rubble.
