Hamas condemns postponement of Palestinian prisoners’ release as violation of ceasefire agreement
Hamas on Sunday condemned Netanyahu’s decision to postpone the release of Palestinian prisoners and detainees, saying the occupation’s claims were false and served as a pretext to avoid fulfilling its obligations under the Gaza ceasefire agreement.
“Netanyahu’s decision reflects a deliberate attempt to disrupt the agreement, represents a clear violation of its terms, and shows the occupation’s lack of reliability in implementing its obligations,” Ezzat El Rashq, a member of the Hamas political bureau, said in a statement.
The occupation released a statement in the early hours of Sunday, stating that the 620 Palestinian prisoners and detainees would not be freed until the next captives’ release had been assured, and without any ceremonies.
In response, Hamas’ El Rashq said the ceremonies do not include any insult to the captives, “but rather reflect the humane and dignified treatment of them”, adding that the “real insult” is what the Palestinian prisoners are subjected to during the release process.
Hamas’ Prisoners’ Media Office confirmed that of the 620 prisoners, 151 are serving life or long-term sentences, with 43 set to be released to the West Bank and Al-Quds, 97 to be deported abroad, and 11 from Gaza before October 7, 2023. The remaining 445 prisoners are from Gaza after October 7, 2023, along with 24 women and children.
If the seventh batch of Palestinian prisoners is released as planned, the total number of Palestinian detainees freed will reach 1,755, including many with life sentences.
