Hamas says it will release hostages as planned, apparently resolving cease-fire dispute
Hamas said Thursday it would release Israeli hostages as planned, apparently resolving a major dispute that threatened the cease-fire in the Gaza Strip.
The terrorist group said Egyptian and Qatari mediators have affirmed that they will work to “remove all hurdles,” and that it would implement the cease-fire deal.
The statement indicated three more Israeli hostages would be freed Saturday.
There was no immediate comment from Israel after Hamas’ announcement.
That would allow the cease-fire in the Gaza Strip to continue for now, but its future remains in doubt.
Hamas had threatened to delay the next release of Israeli hostages, accusing Israel of failing to meet its obligations to allow in tents and shelters, among other alleged violations of the truce.
Israel, with the support of US President Donald Trump, had threatened to renew its offensive if hostages were not freed.
