The Ceasefire Between Israel And Hamas Has Been Delayed

The ceasefire between Israel and Hamas has been delayed, Israel Defense Forces Spokesman announced Sunday morning. He said the delay was due to Hamas failing to provide a list of the names of three hostages scheduled for release later in the day as part of the agreement.

Hamas blamed technical problems for failing to hand over the list, and said it was still committed to the deal. Israel launched a campaign to destroy Hamas in response to the 7 October 2023 attack, in which about 1,200 people were killed and 251 others were taken hostage. Almost 46,900 people have been killed in Gaza since then, and most of the 2.3 million population has been displaced.

Israel says 94 of the hostages are still being held by Hamas, of whom 34 are presumed dead. The first six-week phase of the ceasefire deal should see 33 hostages - including women, children and elderly people - exchanged for Palestinian prisoners being held by Israel.