Hamas announced a postponement of the scheduled release of Israeli hostages, accusing Israel of breaching the terms of the ongoing ceasefire agreement. The terrorist group alleges Israel has delayed the return of displaced persons to northern Gaza, engaged in targeted attacks, and restricted the flow of essential aid. Hamas claims it has upheld its commitments while Israel has fallen short.

A spokesperson for Hamas's military wing stated that the release of hostages, originally slated for February 15, 2025, is on hold indefinitely, pending Israel's adherence to the agreement and compensation for alleged violations. The spokesperson emphasized Hamas's commitment to the ceasefire, contingent on Israel's reciprocal commitment.

The current ceasefire, spanning six weeks, stipulates the release of 33 hostages captured by Hamas during its October 7, 2023, attack. In return, Israel is to release nearly 2,000 Palestinian prisoners. Five exchanges have taken place since the ceasefire began, resulting in the release of 21 hostages and over 730 Palestinian prisoners.

Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz condemned Hamas's decision as a flagrant violation of the ceasefire and the hostage release agreement. Katz has directed the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) to heighten their preparedness for any potential escalation in Gaza and strengthen the defense of Israeli communities.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu convened an urgent security assessment following the announcement. Israeli media outlets reported on the development. The Hostages and Missing Families Forum, a group advocating for the return of the remaining hostages, issued a statement urging mediating countries to intervene and ensure the agreement's restoration and implementation. The forum underscored the urgency of the situation, citing the deteriorating health of previously released hostages as evidence of the need for swift action.

The most recent exchange saw the release of three Israeli hostages—Eli Sharabi, Or Levy, and Ohad Ben Ami—who appeared visibly weakened. Israel simultaneously released 183 Palestinian prisoners. President Donald Trump commented on the hostages' physical condition, likening them to Holocaust survivors and expressing concern over their apparent lack of proper nourishment. Trump hinted at potential consequences if the treatment of hostages does not improve.