Hamas warns Israel’s violations could derail captive release

A Hamas official has said there are “positive signals” that captives held in Gaza will be released as scheduled on Saturday, but warned that Israel’s failure to uphold its commitments threatens the process.

Mahmoud Mardawi told The Associated Press that mediators are working to finalise the agreement, but added, “we have yet to receive Israel’s commitment to implement the full terms of the deal, especially the humanitarian protocol.”

The fragile ceasefire is at risk of collapse as Hamas accuses Israel of violating the truce by firing on civilians in Gaza and restricting the entry of essential aid, including shelters and other supplies. In response, Hamas said it would delay the scheduled release of captives until Israel fulfils its obligations.