Israel has reportedly sent a message through Egypt and Qatar to Hamas, demanding the release of three captives by Saturday to maintain the ceasefire. U.S. President Trump has issued a warning to Hamas, while conflicting statements from Israeli officials have surfaced. Hamas continues to assert its commitment to the ceasefire amid ongoing diplomatic negotiations.

On February 13, 2025, it was reported that Israel has communicated to Hamas via Egypt and Qatar, regarding a ceasefire in Gaza. The message emphasized that three captives must be released by Saturday for the agreement to remain intact. If confirmed, this communication could clarify previous contradictory statements made by U.S. and Israeli officials concerning the required number of hostages for the continuation of the ceasefire.

President Donald Trump has issued a stern warning, demanding the release of all captives by Saturday noon, or risk severe consequences. Concurrently, conflicting remarks have emerged from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who has alternately called for the release of all hostages, specified nine hostages, and referred vaguely to general hostages needed to secure the ceasefire.

Hamas has reaffirmed its commitment to the current ceasefire, while also accusing Israel of violations, such as the killing of Palestinians and hindering the delivery of essential aid to Gaza. These accusations have contributed to Hamas’s decision to delay the release of hostages. Trump has suggested that Palestinian residents may be displaced to Egypt and Jordan under a proposed U.S. plan.

Egyptian officials have expressed dissatisfaction with the rhetoric used by both Israeli and American leaders concerning the Palestinian issue. In response, Netanyahu has threatened to escalate military action in Gaza if the captives are not freed as per the conditions set for the ceasefire. Meanwhile, specific international organizations have been authorized to send medical supplies and fuel to Gaza.

Hamas leader Khalil Al-Hayya traveled to Cairo for discussions with Egyptian officials, aiming to salvage the ceasefire agreement. Reports indicate that talks may yield a favorable outcome to maintain the ceasefire, which has been under strain since its inception on January 19, halting over 15 months of conflict that resulted in significant casualties for Palestinians.

Efforts by Egypt and Qatar to mediate the ceasefire continue amidst pressure from U.S. and Israeli demands for the release of prisoners. Insiders warned that failing to maintain the ceasefire could result in renewed violence in the region. Since the ceasefire began, there have been five prisoner swaps, with 766 Palestinians and 21 captives exchanged.

The ongoing situation surrounding the Gaza ceasefire remains precarious as Israel communicates its demands to Hamas for the release of captives. The conflicting statements from U.S. and Israeli officials complicate the situation further. With mediation efforts led by Egypt and Qatar, all parties involved acknowledge the significance of maintaining the ceasefire to avert further violence in the region.

Original Source: www.egypttoday.com

Related posts:

Arab Nations Reject Trump’s Proposal to Relocate Palestinians from Gaza Trump Proposes Resettlement of Palestinians Amid Gaza Crisis Trump Proposes Controversial Plan to Relocate Palestinians from Gaza Trump Adjusts Aid Stance on Jordan Amid Gaza Discussions