Israel-Gaza latest: Hamas says it will release hostages under ceasefire deal this weekend as planned
Hamas has said it will release three hostages this weekend as planned, in a bid to save the fragile ceasefire deal with Israel.
Hamas had suspended the release of hostages after accusing Israel of breaching ceasefire obligations, including delaying the return of Palestinians to northern Gaza, carrying out strikes across the enclave and hindering the entry of humanitarian aid.
It comes after it emerged Israel is considering attacks on Iranian nuclear sites this year, according to US intelligence agencies, in a move which could dramatically escalate tensions in the region.
The Israeli government wants to take advantage of Iran’s weakness after the damage done to its so-called proxy groups in the Middle East, the Wall Street Journal reported.
Analysis by intelligence agencies found that Israel is likely to push the Trump administration into backing the strikes. Military support from the US would likely be needed, military officials said.
The strikes could take place by the summer, according to the Washington Post – but the White House, Israeli government, CIA, and other agencies have all declined to comment on the reports.
