The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) launched strikes on Hamas targets in the central and northern Gaza Strip on Sunday morning (19 January, local time), citing a breach of the ceasefire agreement. Hamas failed to provide the names of hostages expected to be released, as required under the terms of the deal with Israel. The military emphasized its commitment to safeguarding Israeli security while continuing operations in Gaza against terrorist targets.
According to IDF Spokesman Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari, military activities are ongoing amid Hamas’s delay in meeting its obligations. The ceasefire, initially set to take effect at 8:30 a.m. (local time), was postponed following directives from Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The agreement stipulates that Hamas must submit the list of hostages at least 24 hours before their release, a commitment the group has not fulfilled.
Prime Minister Netanyahu convened a security assessment on Saturday night to address the situation. He instructed the IDF to withhold the ceasefire until Israel receives the required information. Netanyahu reaffirmed that Israel would not proceed with the planned ceasefire until the terms of the agreement are fully met. This decision underscores Israel’s resolve to ensure the safety and rights of its citizens.
Hamas attributed the delay in providing the hostage list to “technical reasons” but reiterated its commitment to the ceasefire agreement. Under the deal, the first three hostages were scheduled to be released on Sunday (19 January) at 4:00 p.m. (local time). The IDF remains prepared to act decisively against threats, while Israeli leaders emphasize the importance of adherence to the agreement to move forward.
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