Hamas Confirms Commitment to Exchange Deal

Hamas has released a statement confirming their to remain commitment to the ceasefire deal and the subsequent exchange agreement with Israel. The announcement came after the Palestinian group’s delegation, led by Khalil Al-Hayya, held talks in Cairo with Egyptian and Qatari mediators.

Hamas previously postponed the exchange of three Israelis. This exchange was originally set for last weekend.

The Palestinian group put the agreement on hold after accusing Israel of failing to uphold its end of the ceasefire agreement, such as by continuing to block the agreed-upon number of aid trucks, as well as the entry of essential goods and shelter. Over the week, Israel threatened to resume its aggression in Gaza, with US President Donald Trump claiming that “All hell is going to break out.”

The exchange is part of the ceasefire deal which took effect on January 19th, and is intended to remain in effect until March 2nd. The first phase of the ceasefire is intended to see the release of 25 living Israelis and eight bodies in exchange for 1,500 Palestinians held in Israeli custody.