Gaza: The Palestinian resistance movement, Hamas, has stated that it will not release Israeli prisoners until a ceasefire agreement is achieved in the region. This announcement is part of broader efforts to address the ongoing hostilities.
Hamas leader Abu Hamid emphasized that the release of Israeli prisoners is contingent on the establishment of a ceasefire agreement.
He also pointed out that some time would be required to trace all individuals involved in the October 7 attacks, which further complicates the issue of prisoner release.
According to the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF), Hamas has taken 229 individuals hostage and relocated them to Gaza. Additionally, Abu Hamid disclosed that 50 hostages have tragically lost their lives as a result of Israeli airstrikes on Gaza.