Hamas: Failure to allow aid into Gaza after threatens future of swap negotiations
GAZA, May 15 (YPA) – The Islamic Resistance Movement Hamas warned on Thursday that delaying the entry of humanitarian aid into the Gaza Strip after the release of captive Israeli soldier Idan Alexander may negatively affect efforts aimed at completing negotiations on a prisoner exchange deal.
The movement explained in a press release that the release of the American-Israeli prisoner was a sign of goodwill, stemming from its commitment to alleviating the suffering of the Palestinian people. It also noted that this step coincided with the US President’s visit to the region with the aim of creating a positive atmosphere to support the calm efforts.
Hamas confirmed that, based on understandings reached with the US side and with the knowledge of the mediators, it had expected the immediate commencement of humanitarian aid entry into Gaza.
It also stressed the importance of calling for a permanent ceasefire and the commencement of comprehensive negotiations to address all issues related to the ongoing Israeli occupation attacks.
Warning of negative repercussions
The movement emphasized that the occupation’s stubborn insistence on its position and delaying the entry of aid into the besieged Gaza Strip is inconsistent with existing humanitarian and political efforts. It noted that this behavior will negatively impact any efforts to complete the prisoner exchange negotiations, referring to the stalemate that is hampering discussions related to the release of Palestinian prisoners in exchange for the captured Israeli soldiers.
Political and moral message
Earlier this week, Hamas announced the release of captured US soldier Idan Alexander, describing the move as a moral and humanitarian one aimed at supporting international efforts to halt the ongoing Israeli aggression on the Gaza Strip and facilitate the entry of much-needed humanitarian aid and relief supplies to the population.
Meanwhile, truce negotiations between Hamas and the occupation, mediated by Egypt, Qatar, and the United States, have been at a standstill for weeks. This comes amid the Israeli government’s insistence on resuming its military operations in Gaza, while refusing to make clear commitments regarding a ceasefire or a complete withdrawal from the Strip.
YPA