Hamas says the second exchange of Israeli hostages for Palestinian prisoners is delayed

The delay in the release of Israeli hostages by Hamas was attributed to allegations of Israeli truce violations. Hamas claimed that the aid deliveries permitted by Israel fell short of the promised amount, and not enough aid was reaching northern Gaza, which was the main focus of Israel’s ground offensive. Additionally, Hamas stated that not enough veteran prisoners were freed in the initial swap on the preceding day.

The exact number of hostages scheduled for release was initially unclear, with conflicting reports from mediators. However, with three Palestinian prisoners set to be freed for each hostage under the agreement, the corresponding number of released Palestinian prisoners was expected to be either 39 or 42.

The goal of the ceasefire and hostage exchange is to bring a temporary halt to the conflict between Israel and Hamas and to secure the release of at least 50 Israeli hostages held by Hamas and 150 Palestinian prisoners held by Israel, all of whom are women and minors. Additionally, there is an option to extend the ceasefire for an extra day for every additional 10 hostages released, as mentioned by U.S. President Joe Biden.

The ceasefire allowed for a temporary pause in the conflict, enabling the delivery of much-needed humanitarian aid, including food, water, medicine, and fuel to Gaza. It marked the first resumption of significant aid convoys since the conflict began. The United Nations and the Palestinian Red Crescent were also able to evacuate patients and family members from a hospital in Gaza City to a hospital in Khan Younis during this period.

The conflict has resulted in a significant loss of life and widespread destruction, with both sides expressing their respective concerns and grievances. Israel has emphasized the need to crush Hamas, which has controlled Gaza for many years, as a means to secure the release of hostages. However, families of hostages have called for a prioritization of their release. The situation remains fluid and complex, with the ceasefire offering a temporary respite from the violence.