Netanyahu Delays Gaza Ceasefire Over Hostage List from Hamas

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced that Gaza's ceasefire, set for 0630 GMT Sunday, will not commence until Hamas provides a list of hostages to be released. This comes hours before the 15-month conflict's possible pause, brokered by Egypt, Qatar, and the U.S.

Hamas attributed delays in sharing the list to "technical field reasons." Pro-Hamas media reported Israeli forces withdrawing from Rafah toward the Philadelphi corridor. The Israeli military warned Gaza residents to avoid movement until safe transit methods are announced.

The ceasefire's initial six-week phase includes the release of 33 hostages in exchange for 2,000 Palestinian detainees, some convicted of attacks on Israelis. Hostage releases will progress weekly, facilitated by the Red Cross.

The war, sparked by Hamas' October 2023 attack that killed 1,200 Israelis and led to over 250 hostages, has killed 47,000 Palestinians, according to Gaza health officials. Israel claims a third were fighters, while the rest were civilians.

International pressure mounts as Netanyahu faces war crimes allegations at the ICC and accusations of genocide at the ICJ. The conflict has also reshaped the Middle East, weakening Iran's influence and its allies like Hezbollah.

While the ceasefire aims to end hostilities, uncertainty looms over Gaza's future. Israel has vowed to prevent Hamas' resurgence, and internal political tensions challenge Netanyahu's leadership. Without a comprehensive agreement, the fragile peace could unravel, leaving hostages at risk and reconstruction efforts stalled.

The U.S. played a key role in securing the agreement, with outgoing President Joe Biden and incoming President-elect Donald Trump emphasizing swift action. Yet, the region remains in turmoil as international outrage over Gaza's devastation grows.