Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu warned Saturday that the proposed ceasefire with Hamas will not proceed unless the militant group provides a list of hostages set to be released. The warning comes as the Israeli government approved the ceasefire deal, scheduled to take effect Sunday at 6:30 a.m. local time.
“We will not move forward with the outline until we receive the list of hostages to be released, as agreed,” Netanyahu’s office said in a statement. “Israel will not tolerate violations of the agreement. The sole responsibility lies with Hamas.”
Gaza Residents Warned to Avoid Israeli Soldiers
Israeli military spokesperson Avichay Adraee issued a warning to Gaza residents, urging them to avoid approaching Israeli soldiers in the area.
“Approaching the forces exposes you to danger,” Adraee said in a post on X, formerly Twitter. He also cautioned against traveling from southern Gaza to northern areas, citing ongoing military activity. Movement will remain restricted until further instructions are issued, he added.
Adraee further advised against accessing the Rafah border crossing or engaging in fishing and swimming, citing “great risks” to safety.
Under the terms of the ceasefire, Israeli soldiers will remain in Gaza during the first phase of the agreement. Netanyahu reiterated that progress depends on Hamas fulfilling its obligation to provide the hostage list.
The deal, brokered with international mediation, includes the release of 33 hostages held by Hamas. However, the lack of a finalized list has heightened tensions, with some Israeli officials threatening to block the agreement.
The ceasefire deal has sparked domestic criticism. National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir announced he would resign in protest, calling the agreement a concession to Hamas. Other government ministers have also expressed dissatisfaction, potentially weakening Netanyahu’s governing coalition.
Despite the internal discord, many Israelis are urging Netanyahu to move forward with the deal. Demonstrators in Hostages Square in Tel Aviv called for the safe return of captives and emphasized the importance of securing their release.
News.Sky.com
