Gaza ceasefire delayed, Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu insists on Hamas releasing hostage list

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has delayed a planned Gaza ceasefire until Hamas provides a list of hostages to be released. The ceasefire was set to begin at 6:30 GMT on Sunday, but Netanyahu's office announced the delay just an hour before the deadline, reported Reuters.

Hamas had earlier affirmed its commitment to the deal, attributing the delay to "technical field reasons." The ceasefire, brokered by Egypt, Qatar, and the US, aims to end the 15-month conflict that has devastated Gaza and reshaped West Asia.

The agreement includes a three-stage plan. In the first phase, 33 hostages—women, children, and the elderly—will be freed in exchange for nearly 2,000 Palestinian prisoners. This initial exchange includes three female hostages set to be released later on Sunday.

Meanwhile, the Israeli military has begun withdrawing from parts of Gaza. However, residents have been warned not to move until official clearance is given.

The conflict has left over 47,000 Palestinians and hundreds of Israeli soldiers dead, with Gaza reduced to rubble. The ceasefire offers a chance for displaced Palestinians to return home and for some hostages to reunite with their families.

Despite the agreement, challenges remain. Israeli hardliners demand continued military action against Hamas, while international criticism mounts over the destruction in Gaza. Questions about Gaza’s long-term future and the rebuilding process remain unresolved.

The war has also had regional impacts, weakening Iran-backed groups like Hezbollah but isolating Israel diplomatically. Netanyahu now faces mounting pressure at home and abroad as the ceasefire’s implementation unfolds.