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Netanyahu Delays Ceasefire, Hostage Release of Dozens, Accuses Hamas of 'Last-Minute Crisis'

Jan 16, 2025, 09:55 AM

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has accused Hamas of reneging on parts of a Gaza ceasefire and hostage-release deal, causing a 'last-minute crisis' that is holding up the approval of the agreement. Netanyahu's office stated that the Israeli cabinet will not meet to approve the deal until Hamas backs down and accepts all elements of the agreement. The prime minister accused Hamas of attempting to 'extort last-minute concessions' by reneging on explicit understandings reached with mediators and Israel. The ceasefire deal, which was expected to pause fighting in the Gaza Strip and facilitate the release of dozens of hostages, has been delayed due to Hamas's alleged backtracking on key parts of the pact.