Israel halts Palestinian return to Northern Gaza amid hostage release controversy

Saturday 25 January 2025 - 16:15

By: Dakir Madiha

Israel halts Palestinian return to Northern Gaza amid hostage release controversy

Israel has suspended the planned return of Palestinians to northern Gaza, citing unresolved issues with the ongoing hostage exchange deal. The decision stems from complications surrounding the expected release of Israeli civilian Arbel Yehoud and four female soldiers.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office announced that the release did not proceed as initially negotiated when Yehoud was not included in the list of captives to be freed. Military spokesman Daniel Hagari accused Hamas of failing to honor the agreement's terms, specifically the release of all female civilian hostages.

Contrarily, a Hamas source informed Al Jazeera that Yehoud is alive and will be released next Saturday. Despite this assurance, Israeli forces remain firm in blocking Palestinian movement, with Israeli Chief of Staff Major-General Herzi Halevi warning Palestinians against approaching the Netzarim Corridor.

The current situation has left many Palestinians stranded, unable to cross into northern Gaza from the al-Rashid Street checkpoint. Meanwhile, 200 Palestinian prisoners were transported to Ramallah in the West Bank as part of the ongoing exchange.

International mediators, including the United States, Qatar, and Egypt, continue to facilitate negotiations between the parties. The unfolding events highlight the complex and delicate nature of the ongoing conflict and prisoner exchange process.