- Israel delays releasing 620 Palestinian prisoners, citing Hamas’s “humiliating” hostage handovers.
- Hamas halts ceasefire negotiations, demanding Israel’s compliance with prisoner release terms.
- Israeli tanks enter Jenin, West Bank, for the first time in over 20 years.
- Around 40,000 Palestinians displaced by intensified Israeli military actions.
- International community expresses concern over rising tensions and fragile ceasefire.
On February 23, 2025, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced the postponement of releasing 620 Palestinian prisoners. This decision followed what Israel described as “humiliating” ceremonies conducted by Hamas during the handover of Israeli hostages. Netanyahu emphasized that the release would proceed only if Hamas assured respectful conduct during future exchanges.
The delay has intensified tensions, risking the collapse of the five-week-old ceasefire between Israel and Hamas. The truce, which began on January 19, 2025, significantly reduced hostilities in the Gaza Strip after over 15 months of conflict. However, the terms of the truce’s second phase remain uncertain, contributing to rising apprehension on both sides.
Hamas Suspends Ceasefire Talks
Hamas responded by suspending further ceasefire negotiations. Senior Hamas official Basem Naim accused Israel of jeopardizing the agreement’s integrity and demanded the immediate release of Palestinian prisoners. He also called on international mediators, particularly the United States, to pressure Israel to honor its commitments under the ceasefire agreement.
Hamas stated that the staged ceremonies during hostage releases were meant to celebrate freedom but accused Israel of politicizing the events to justify delaying the prisoner releases. The group insists that continued discussions depend on Israel’s immediate compliance with the agreement.
Military Escalation in the West Bank
Amid these tensions, Israel expanded its military operations in the occupied West Bank, where violence has escalated throughout the Gaza conflict. On the same day, Israeli tanks entered the Jenin area, marking the first such deployment in over 20 years.
Israel’s Defense Minister, Israel Katz, announced plans to maintain troops in the cleared areas of Jenin for at least a year. This is intended to prevent the return of displaced residents and curb militant activities. The move has led to the displacement of approximately 40,000 Palestinians from refugee camps in northern West Bank.
The Palestinian Authority condemned the military escalation, describing it as a dangerous intensification of the conflict. They warned that the ongoing occupation and military operations could undermine efforts to achieve long-term peace and stability in the region.
International Reactions and Mediation Efforts
The international community has expressed concern over the escalating violence and the potential collapse of the fragile ceasefire. The United Nations called for restraint and urged all parties to comply with international law.
US President Donald Trump’s envoy, Steve Witkoff, announced plans to visit the Middle East to mediate the crisis and seek an extension of the truce’s first phase. Witkoff expressed hope for progress, stating, “We aim to finalize phase two and ensure the release of more hostages.”
However, Trump’s suggestion of a US-administered Gaza and the relocation of its Palestinian inhabitants has sparked widespread criticism, further complicating diplomatic efforts.
Historical Context and Ongoing Conflict
The conflict intensified after Hamas’s attack on Israel on October 7, 2023, which killed over 1,200 people. Israel’s retaliation resulted in more than 48,000 deaths in Gaza, according to figures from both sides. Netanyahu vowed to destroy Hamas and bring back all hostages taken during the attack, emphasizing that Israel would achieve its objectives through negotiations or “other means.”
Since the ceasefire began, Gaza militants have released 25 Israeli hostages in staged ceremonies, often accompanied by masked gunmen. Following the release of six hostages on February 22, 2025, Israel postponed the planned release of more than 600 Palestinian prisoners, citing “humiliating ceremonies” as the reason.
The International Committee of the Red Cross, which facilitated the hostage-prisoner exchanges, previously called for the swaps to be conducted in a “dignified and private” manner. However, disagreements over the nature of the ceremonies have fueled tensions, with both sides accusing each other of violating the ceasefire terms.
Uncertain Future for Ceasefire
Tensions are rising, leaving the future of the ceasefire uncertain. Analysts say Netanyahu faces a tough choice. He must either resume fighting or risk his far-right coalition government collapsing. Domestic pressure over his handling of the war adds to his challenges.
Michael Horowitz, head of intelligence at Le Beck risk management consultancy, said, “The deployment of tanks in the West Bank comes at a very sensitive time for the Gaza ceasefire.” He warned that continued military action could worsen the already volatile situation.
The international community is urging both sides to honor their commitments. They emphasize the need for a diplomatic resolution to prevent a return to widespread hostilities. As the deadline for the truce’s first phase nears in early March, pressure is mounting on both Israel and Hamas to find common ground.
The delay in prisoner releases and increased military actions in the West Bank have strained the fragile ceasefire. Continued international intervention and diplomatic efforts are crucial. They are needed to maintain stability and prevent the resumption of full-scale conflict.