 "Israel has distanced itself from Trump's remarks on demanding for the return all hostages, instead sticking to requiring the pre-agreed schedule being followed. Representational Image")
Israel has reiterated its commitment to the agreed-upon hostage release schedule under the ceasefire deal with Hamas– despite US President Donald Trump’s call for all remaining captives to be freed by Saturday (February 15).
Israeli officials made it clear that their demand that Hamas release three hostages on schedule remains in line with the original agreement.
David Mencer, a spokesperson for the Israeli government, said on Thursday (February 13) that “There is a framework in place for the release of our hostages…That framework makes clear that three live hostages must be released” by Hamas on Saturday, The Guardian reported.
Trump had earlier suggested that Israel should demand the release of all remaining hostages– believed to be over 70– or, failing that, resume military operations in Gaza.
Although Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu initially praised Trump’s stance, his government had remained vague on whether it would act on the ultimatum.
This is not the only remark from Trump that has cast doubt on the long-term stability of the ceasefire agreement. Last week, he suggested that the US should assume control of Gaza and relocate its 2.2 million residents to neighbouring countries
Ceasefire holds as Hamas reaffirms timetable
The ceasefire, in effect since January 19, had seemed to be on thin ice earlier this week when Hamas threatened to suspend further hostage releases, citing alleged violations by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF).
However, by Thursday, Hamas confirmed it would proceed with the agreed timetable.
Mencer did not comment on Hamas’ reversal or the reason they gave. He did, however, say that Israel would assess Hamas’ compliance once the hostages were returned.
Impact Shorts
More Shorts“If Hamas violate this agreement and do not release our hostages, the government has made clear that it has instructed our armed forces – and we have already amassed forces inside and surrounding Gaza – if Hamas does not return our hostages by Saturday noon the ceasefire will end and the IDF will resume intense fighting until the final defeat of Hamas,” Mencer said in a video press conference.