Description: The latest statements from Israel, Hamas and Donald Trump further infuriated the ceasefire agreement and made it susceptible to a shorter lifespan. Hamas’ armed wing, the Qassam Brigades through their spokesperson Abu Ubeida have announced their intention to withhold the hostage releases scheduled for Saturday due to Israel’s violations of the ceasefire agreement. Israel’s Minister of Defense, Israel Katz has in response put the military forces on high alert in expectation of continued armed fighting with Hamas. The entire situation was additionally undermined by US President Donald Trump who stated that Palestinians won’t be able to return to Gaza after the end of the war and pledged to end the ceasefire agreement if and whether Hamas doesn’t respect the Saturday deadline. Hamas accused Israel of withholding the aid expected to arrive in Gaza as well as killing and shelling civilians in the Strip since they were approved for return.
Impact: On the brink of the fragile second phase of the ceasefire agreement both parties seem more eager to continue the war instead of brokering continuance of the ceasefire agreement. Hamas’ announcement comes a day after top officials met with Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei where the meeting details were scarce for the public. Israel’s stance is clear, they are aiming at continuing their military campaign in the region, with uncompromising support from the US. Donald Trump’s statements regarding Gaza’s ethnic cleansing and pressuring Hamas into further hostage releases while stating no concessions for Israel could lead to reinitiating of the armed fighting and continued humanitarian crisis. The recent complications could be also seen as a provoking message to Jordan and Egypt as they have staunchly objected the relocation of Palestinian refugees on their territory. With four days left to the scheduled hostage release, the ceasefire agreement looks to faulter under Israeli and US pressure as Hamas continuously refuses on the hostage releases.