Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office announced on Thursday that Hamas is allegedly attempting to alter “parts of the agreement reached with mediators and Israel,” aiming for last-minute concessions.
“The Israeli cabinet will not convene until the mediators notify Israel that Hamas has accepted all elements of the agreement,” the statement said.
The Israeli cabinet is scheduled to meet later on Thursday to approve the ceasefire agreement, which was announced on Wednesday and is set to take effect on Sunday.
Israeli negotiators remain in Doha, Qatar, where discussions have been mediated. Hamas responded to the accusations, stating, “The organization is committed to the ceasefire agreement announced by the mediators.”
Despite the ceasefire announcement, violence continues in Gaza. The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) launched strikes that, according to Gaza Civil Defense, have killed at least 71 Palestinians, including 61 in Gaza City alone. Among the victims were 19 children and 24 women, with more than 200 people reported injured.
Palestinian journalists and analysts suggest that Israel may intensify its airstrikes in the days leading up to the ceasefire’s implementation, raising fears of additional casualties and destruction before the agreement takes effect.