Israel has postponed the release of Palestinian prisoners

February 23, 2025

Regarding the Gaza ceasefire, let us update you that Israel has postponed the release of 600 Palestinian prisoners for an indefinite period. If this happens, it can end the ceasefire agreement.

On Saturday, Hamas released six Israeli hostages. Among them were four Israelis who had been abducted by Hamas during the October 7, 2023, attack on Israel.

Israel’s Prime Minister’s office said that they will not release Palestinian prisoners until all Israeli hostages are freed. They also want Hamas to stop holding public celebrations when Israeli prisoners are released.

In the initial phase of the ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas, six Israeli hostages were released by Hamas. Among them were individuals captured during the October 7, 2023 attack, as well as others who had been held for nearly a decade. One of the most notable releases was Avera Mengistu, an Israeli of Ethiopian descent, who had been in captivity for over 3,800 days. The news of their return led to emotional reunions and widespread relief in Israel.

In exchange, Israel had agreed to release more than 600 Palestinian prisoners. However, the process was halted, with Hamas accusing Israel of violating the ceasefire terms by delaying the prisoner releases. Tensions escalated further over complications in returning the remains of Israeli captives. The misidentification of the bodies of Shiri Bibas and her two young sons, Ariel and Kfir, caused deep distress for their grieving family. Israeli officials condemned Hamas, calling it a serious breach of the agreement.

These setbacks underscore the fragile nature of the ceasefire and the complexity of the negotiations. As both sides navigate these challenges, the world watches closely, hoping for a resolution that brings lasting peace.

In the second phase of this agreement, no steps have yet been taken for the release of the remaining hostages who are still alive. The Israeli Prime Minister has accused Hamas of violating this agreement, including allegations that these prisoners are being used for ‘malicious propaganda.’

Hamas has stated that by delaying the release of Palestinian prisoners, Israel is committing a ‘serious violation’ of the ceasefire agreement.

According to the Palestinian Media Center, Hamas spokesperson Abdul Latif stated that ‘the delay in releasing the seventh batch of prisoners on the agreed date under the exchange process by the occupiers is a serious violation of the agreement.’

On Saturday, Hamas released six hostages who, according to the Israeli military, have now safely reunited with their families.

Earlier, a media office responsible for discussing matters related to Palestinian prisoners stated that 602 Palestinian detainees were expected to be freed in exchange for Israeli hostages.

As part of the first phase of the ceasefire agreement, the plan included the release of 1,900 Palestinian prisoners held in Israeli jails in exchange for 33 Israeli hostages.

Since January 19, Israel has released over 1,000 Palestinian prisoners.

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