Hamas confirms: We are committed to the ceasefire; but we will only release 3 hostages on Saturday

In a dramatic development this morning (Thursday), Hamas officials announced their intention to proceed with the scheduled release of three Israeli hostages this Saturday, marking a significant shift from their earlier threats to suspend the deal. This announcement comes amid mounting international pressure, particularly from the United States.

THE LATEST PHASE

The terrorist organization's senior official, Sami Abu Zuhri, confirmed through official Hamas channels that the group will honor its commitment to release three hostages, though notably refusing demands for a larger-scale release. This decision follows intense diplomatic activity and explicit threats from U.S. President Donald Trump, who set a clear deadline of Saturday at 12:00 noon for significant progress.

"Israel has met its humanitarian commitments," Hamas stated through its official channels, acknowledging the increased aid flow to northern Gaza, which had been a major point of contention.

NUMBERS ON THE GROUND

To date, 16 Israeli hostages have been freed in the deal's first stage, alongside five Thai nationals released outside the framework agreement. The most recent releases included Ohad Ben Ami, Or Levy, and Eli Sharabi.

According to Israeli sources, 17 more hostages are slated for release in the coming weeks:

- 5 individuals aged 50 and above

- 9 people with known medical conditions or injuries

- The Bibas family members: Shiri and her children Ariel and Kfir

- Two pre-war captives: Avera Mengistu and Hisham al-Sayed

DIPLOMATIC PRESSURE

U.S. Special Envoy Steve Witkoff delivered a stark warning: "If nothing changes by Saturday noon, there's going to be a big problem." He emphasized that Hamas, likening them to ISIS, "cannot be part of Gaza's government."

The agreement's structure calls for three hostages to be released each Saturday, eventually totaling 33 releases in its first phase. Hamas must submit the list of those to be released by Friday at 4:00 PM, though previous phases saw delays in this process.

HUMANITARIAN ASPECTS

The announcement coincides with reports of increased humanitarian aid reaching northern Gaza, including the entry of caravans and heavy engineering equipment. Mediators have emphasized their commitment to implementing all agreement clauses, particularly the humanitarian protocol.

REGIONAL IMPLICATIONS

This development occurs against a complex regional backdrop, with Jordan recently reaffirming its opposition to certain aspects of proposed post-conflict arrangements. The situation remains fluid, with multiple stakeholders working to maintain the delicate balance required for the deal's continuation.

THE ROAD AHEAD

While this weekend's planned release represents progress, significant challenges remain. With 17 hostages scheduled for release under this phase of the agreement, the coming weeks will be crucial in determining the success of the broader diplomatic effort to secure their release.

Israeli officials maintain their position of knowing which hostages are alive, though specific details about their conditions remain unclear. The international community continues to monitor the situation closely as this critical phase unfolds.