Israel announced on Saturday that it will block Palestinians from returning to the northern Gaza Strip, citing Hamas’ alleged violation of the ceasefire agreement. The announcement follows Hamas’ release of four female Israeli soldiers in the latest hostage exchange, a move that Israel claims contradicts the agreed-upon terms, which stipulated the release of female civilians before military personnel.
According to Israeli officials, the ceasefire agreement required the release of female civilian hostage Arbel Yehud before any soldiers were freed. Yehud, an Israeli civilian, remains in captivity, reportedly held by the Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ) in Gaza. Israeli authorities have stated that the return of displaced Palestinians to the north will only be permitted once Yehud is released.
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An Israeli Army Radio correspondent reported that efforts are ongoing to secure Yehud’s freedom, with negotiations being expedited. A Hamas official confirmed that Yehud is alive and indicated that she is expected to be included in the next hostage exchange scheduled for February 1.
Meanwhile, a U.S. National Security Council official told Axios that Washington is actively engaged in efforts to secure Yehud’s release, stating that the U.S. is “continuing to push” for her freedom through diplomatic channels.
As part of the hostage-prisoner exchange deal, Israel released 200 Palestinian prisoners on January 25. Among those released were 120 individuals serving life sentences for the killing of Israelis. The prisoners were transported to the West Bank, Egypt, and the Gaza Strip.
The ceasefire agreement, which has seen multiple exchanges of hostages and prisoners, remains under strain as both sides navigate the terms of the truce. Israel has reiterated that any further easing of restrictions will be contingent on Hamas’ compliance with the agreed terms.
The international community continues to monitor the situation closely, with diplomatic efforts ongoing to maintain the fragile ceasefire and secure the release of remaining hostages.
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