ALBAWABA - The Islamic Resistance Movement (Hamas) has reaffirmed its commitment to a complete prisoner exchange deal, stating that it is ready to execute the swap in one phase under specific conditions. The movement also emphasized that the reconstruction of Gaza must be carried out through national consensus, rejecting any external interference in the process.
Hamas spokesperson Hazem Qassem told Al Jazeera on Saturday morning that negotiations for the second phase of the prisoner swap have yet to begin, but that ongoing communication with mediators is in progress. He added that Israel has not yet provided the list of Palestinian prisoners due for release today, highlighting Hamas' commitment to upholding the ceasefire agreement as long as Israel does the same.
The movement accused Israel of stalling the agreement’s implementation, noting that over 33 days have passed since the first phase without full compliance. Hamas urged mediators to increase pressure on Israel, stressing the dire humanitarian conditions in Gaza.
Al Jazeera reports that Hamas also condemned Israel for preventing the families of deported Palestinian prisoners from traveling, describing it as a violation of international agreements and a clear indication of Israel’s defeat in the face of Palestinian resistance.
Hamas successfully transferred six Israeli captives today as part of the latest exchange, a move it says reflects its commitment to honoring the agreement. However, it accused Israel of intentionally delaying further swaps and failing to uphold all aspects of the ceasefire deal.
The Al Jazeera correspondent in Gaza observed that the prisoner handover ceremony was marked by a strong display of national unity, with Palestinians gathering in large numbers to witness the event. Hamas contrasted this sense of cohesion with the political instability and division currently unfolding in Israel.
Hamas further criticized Israel’s treatment of Palestinian detainees, stating that Israeli prisoners in Gaza were treated in accordance with ethical and religious principles, whereas Palestinian prisoners in Israeli jails continue to suffer abuse and harsh conditions.
"The Israeli public has two choices: to receive their captives in coffins or to welcome them alive under the conditions of the resistance," Hamas declared.
Hamas also denounced U.S. President Donald Trump’s proposed plan to relocate Palestinians from Gaza to Egypt and Jordan, a move widely rejected by Arab nations and international organizations. The movement insisted that the right of Palestinians to remain on their land is non-negotiable and warned against attempts to alter the region’s demographics.
