In Israel, frantic efforts are being made to save the second phase of the release of the hostages, which was already scheduled to take place this evening (Saturday). Israel rejects Hamas' claims that Israel did not release the security prisoners it promised, and even sent a message to the countries of the world that "if by 00:00 at night the abductees are not released, we will return to attack." Israel makes it clear and says firmly that it has met all the commitments that have been agreed.
The families of the abductees who released last night in a call for the release of all the abductees // Credit: The families of the abductees
An Israeli source said that according to the agreement, Israel decides who will be released from prison, just as Hamas determines who will be released by it, provided that those released meet the criteria. It should be emphasized that the list of prisoners was published in advance. Israel also notes that for the first time humanitarian aid was transferred to the northern Gaza Strip as well, as agreed, contrary to Hamas' claim.
Israel Hayom has learned that throughout the past 24 hours, Israeli intelligence officials worked throughout the night and day to carry out the second phase, since the problems had already emerged last night. This is one of the reasons why a delegation from Qatar made an unusual landing in Israel earlier today.
Bus intended to transport released prisoners near the Ofer military base, photo: Reuters
According to a Palestinian source who spoke to Israel Hayom, Hamas expressed its displeasure that Israel had released prisoners not according to the principle of seniority. In other words, those who have been in Israeli prisons longer will be released first. The Hamas leadership expressed anger to the Qataris and complained that "Israel is violating the terms of the agreement." The Qataris said they would convey the message to the Israelis, but even today "Hamas is not satisfied with the names of the prisoners slated for release in the second phase." However, the source said, "If an agreement is reached on this matter, the process can get underway."
The Palestinian source also noted that there were disagreements over the transfer of aid trucks and other issues related to "Israel's conduct during the ceasefire" in Gaza.
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