Hamas has warned it plans to delay the next stage of hostage release ‘until further notice’ by claiming that Israel was violating the ongoing hostage ceasefire deal that came into effect on January 19.
The announcement prompted the prime minister of Israel to move up a security cabinet meeting, as the defence minister ordered the military on high alert. It came as the deal’s future remains uncertain, with Israel yet to send negotiators to Qatar with a mandate to discuss its potential second stage, despite the passage of a deadline to do so stipulated in the agreement, reported The Times of Israel.
Trump warns
Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump warned Hamas should return hostages held in Gaza by Saturday noon.
“As far as I’m concerned, if all of the hostages aren’t returned by Saturday at 12 o’clock – I think it’s an appropriate time – I would say, cancel it and all bets are off and let hell break out,” the President was quoted as saying by CNN.
Condition of hostages
Meanwhile, the UN human rights office, OHCHR, called on Monday for Israel and Hamas to ensure that all people they are holding are treated humanely.
“Images of emaciated Israeli hostages and Palestinian detainees released as part of the first phase of the Gaza ceasefire agreement have been deeply distressing,” Spokesperson Thameen Al-Kheetan said in a statement.
He added that the pictures of Israeli hostages released this past weekend show signs of ill-treatment and severe malnourishment, reflecting the dire conditions they were subjected to in Gaza.
“We are also deeply concerned by the public parading of hostages released by Hamas in Gaza, including statements apparently made under duress during release,” continued Al-Kheetan.
Release all hostages and detainees
Meanwhile, Palestinians released from Israeli detention have revealed similar treatment under severe conditions, described by OHCHR as distressing and cause for serious concern.
“Israel and Hamas must ensure humane treatment, including freedom from any form of torture or abuse, for all those held under their power,” declared Al-Kheetan.
The spokesperson reminded all parties to the conflict that torture and other forms of ill-treatment of protected persons are war crimes. and those found guilty must receive sentences commensurate to the severity of their conduct.
“We reiterate that the taking of hostages is a war crime,” he said.
“Hamas must immediately and unconditionally release all hostages, and Israel must immediately and unconditionally release all those arbitrarily detained.”
