Hamas spokesperson Hazem Qasem sharply criticized President Donald Trump’s comments concerning the release of three Israeli hostages by Hamas and Islamic Jihad terrorists.
Trump, in a statement on X, remarked that Hamas had only released three hostages, not the full group, and that Israel would need to make its own decision on how to respond. He also stated that the US would support any decision made by Israel in this regard.
Qasem argued that Trump’s remarks contradicted the ceasefire agreement reached through international efforts, including those from the US. He expressed optimism that negotiations for the next phase of the deal would soon resume.
He further called on the US to pressure Israel into adhering to the agreement if it truly cares about the lives of the hostages. Qasem emphasized that Hamas is prepared for any actions Israel may take to avoid fulfilling the terms of the agreement.
Hamas also secured assurances that caravans and heavy machinery would be allowed into Gaza. The group pointed out that they continue to inform the mediators about Israel’s violations of the ceasefire agreement.
Hamas has frequently breached the ceasefire deal. In one incident, terrorists launched a rocket at Israel, but it misfired and crashed back into Gaza, tragically killing a 14-year-old boy. On Monday, Hamas issued a threat to halt the release of additional hostages, prompting both the US and Israel to warn of the potential collapse of the ceasefire and the return of hostilities if the remaining hostages are not freed.
{Matzav.com Israel}
Israel must force the US to keep up agreement – that all hell will break loose.