In recent days, the US and Israel, by setting a deadline for the release of the remaining prisoners, are trying to change the regional equations in their favor. This move has not only failed to reduce tensions but has also increased the likelihood of a new crisis. So far, 16 out of 33 Hamas prisoners have been released, while Israel has released 656 Palestinians from a list of nearly 2,000. This exchange, which initially seemed like a humanitarian act, has quickly turned into a tool for political and military pressure, escalating tensions between the two sides.
Netanyahu has issued a threatening statement that the ceasefire will end if the prisoners are not released by noon on Saturday. In the same vein, the Israeli Foreign Minister has warned that if the prisoners are not released, a large-scale military operation will be launched in Gaza. On the other hand, Trump has also issued a statement saying that he will support the end of the ceasefire if the prisoners are not released by the deadline. These stances indicate that Washington and Tel Aviv intend to put pressure on Hamas to change the conditions in their favor.
Israel's violation of ceasefire
From another perspective, the main reason for the halt in the prisoner exchange process is Israel's violation of the ceasefire commitments. Reports indicate that during the ceasefire, Israel has continued its attacks against Palestinians, has not stopped the killing of civilians, and has delayed the return of refugees to northern Gaza. Moreover, the entry of relief supplies has been severely restricted, to the extent that many international organizations have warned about the humanitarian situation in Gaza. These actions, in addition to increasing public anger in the Islamic world, have even drawn criticism from some of Israel's Western allies.
Netanyahu's political game and Hamas's response
Within Israel, Netanyahu is trying to turn this crisis into a tool for his political survival. Facing domestic protests and economic crises, he wants to divert public sensitivity from internal problems by threatening to end the ceasefire. However, Hamas, by halting the prisoner exchange, has sent a decisive message. This action demonstrated that the Palestinian resistance remains committed to its principles and will not allow external pressures to influence its decisions.
International reactions and future prospects
The threats by the US and Israel have drawn widespread reactions at the international level. Many countries have warned about the resumption of conflicts and the escalation of the crisis. Experience has shown that military pressures and threats cannot force the Palestinian resistance to retreat, but will only lead to increased tension and further instability. Now, Arab countries and international communities must increase pressure on Israel to compel the regime to adhere to the ceasefire agreement and prevent the start of a new round of violence and bloodshed.
NOURNEWS