Hamas halts hostage release, citing Israeli ceasefire violations
Among them, the release of Nepali national Bipin Joshi was also anticipated.
KATHMANDU: Hamas has announced the suspension of hostage releases, accusing Israel of violating the ceasefire agreement.
Under the pre-arranged deal, hundreds of Palestinian prisoners and three Israeli hostages were set to be freed on Saturday.
Among them, the release of Nepali national Bipin Joshi was also anticipated.
However, Hamas’s latest announcement has thrown the ceasefire agreement into uncertainty.
According to the BBC, Hamas claims that Israel continues shelling Gaza, delaying the resettlement of displaced Palestinians, and obstructing humanitarian aid.
Abu Ubaida, a spokesperson for Hamas’s military wing, stated that Israel has repeatedly breached the agreement over the past three weeks. As a result, hostage releases are suspended until further notice.
The ceasefire, which took effect on Jan 19, 2025, included a mutual hostage exchange between Israel and Hamas.
Israel has yet to issue an official response to Hamas’s claims.
Meanwhile, former U.S. President Donald Trump warned that if Hamas does not release the hostages, the ceasefire could be declared void. He hinted at adopting a strategy to eliminate Hamas completely.
