The Palestinian group Hamas has called on international actors to exert pressure on Israel to uphold its commitments under the Gaza ceasefire agreement, citing repeated violations and obstacles to the handover of Israeli hostages’ remains.
In a statement issued via its Telegram channel, Hamas spokesperson Hazem Qassem reaffirmed the group’s adherence to the terms of the ceasefire, which came into effect on 10 October as part of a phased plan brokered by the United States. Qassem stated that Hamas had already released 20 living Israeli hostages and handed over the remains of 13 more, in exchange for the release of nearly 2,000 Palestinian prisoners.
“We are working daily to complete the handover of all the remains of the Israeli captives,” Qassem said, adding that the process faces “major challenges because of the extensive destruction” in Gaza. He accused Israel of deliberately bombing areas where hostages were held, and noted that the absence of heavy machinery to clear rubble is a significant barrier to recovery efforts.
Hamas has requested that mediators facilitate the entry of equipment needed to retrieve bodies buried under collapsed buildings and tunnels. The group also claimed that some remains are located in areas currently under Israeli military control.
Accusations of Ceasefire Breaches
Qassem further accused Israel of violating the ceasefire agreement on multiple occasions, including through airstrikes, arrests, and restrictions on humanitarian aid. According to the Gaza Government Media Office, Israel has committed over 80 violations since the truce began, resulting in the deaths of at least 97 Palestinians and injuries to more than 230 others.
“All parties that want calm in the region must pressure the occupation to ensure it fulfils its commitments,” Qassem said, alleging that Israel is using the aid file as a tool of political coercion and continuing its policy of starvation against Palestinians in Gaza.
The ceasefire agreement outlines a roadmap for peace, including the exchange of hostages and prisoners, the withdrawal of Israeli forces from parts of Gaza, and the delivery of humanitarian aid. However, implementation has been fraught with delays and mutual accusations of non-compliance.
Mounting Humanitarian Toll
The Gaza Health Ministry reports that more than 68,200 people have been killed and over 170,000 injured since the war began in October 2023. Thousands remain missing, with many believed to be buried under rubble.
Efforts to recover bodies and rebuild infrastructure have been hampered by ongoing hostilities and limited access to aid. Human rights organisations and UN agencies have warned of a worsening humanitarian crisis, with parts of Gaza experiencing famine and widespread displacement.
As diplomatic efforts continue, Hamas has reiterated its call for the international community to ensure that Israel honours its obligations under the ceasefire and facilitates the recovery and return of hostages’ remains.
