On Sunday, Basem Naim, a senior figure in Hamas, stated that future discussions with Israel concerning the terms of the ceasefire depend on the release of Palestinian prisoners, as previously arranged.
Naim, a member of Hamas’ political bureau, told Reuters, “Any talks with the enemy through mediators regarding any upcoming steps are conditional on the release of the 620 Palestinian prisoners agreed upon in exchange for the four bodies and the six Israeli captives who were freed on Saturday.”
He further emphasized, “The mediators must ensure that the enemy adheres to the terms of the agreement as stated in the agreed-upon text.”
These remarks were made following an announcement from the Prime Minister’s Office, which confirmed that due to Hamas’ continuous breaches of the agreement, the release of 620 terrorists, scheduled for Saturday, has been postponed.
The official statement cited several reasons for the delay, including the degrading ceremonies surrounding the hostages and the cynical use of the hostages for propaganda purposes.
The Prime Minister’s Office clarified that the release of the prisoners would only proceed once the release of additional hostages is guaranteed and without the accompanying humiliating rituals.
This statement was made in reference to recent handovers by Hamas, which, according to UN officials, contravened international law due to the lack of dignity shown during the exchanges.
The White House also voiced support for Israel’s decision to delay the release of the prisoners on Sunday.
“Given Hamas’ barbaric treatment of the hostages, including the hideous parade of the Bibas children’s coffins through the streets of Gaza, Israel’s decision to delay the release of prisoners is an appropriate response,” said Brian Hughes, a spokesperson for the White House National Security Council, in a statement.
Hughes added that President Trump is “prepared to support Israel in whatever course of action it chooses regarding Hamas.”
Trump has reiterated his willingness to back Israel in any measures it deems necessary regarding Hamas.
{Matzav.com Israel}