Hamas Seeks to Maximize Its Gains by Stalling Hostage Deal

By Hadas Amram

Two days after the release of hostages Ohad Ben Ami, Or Levi, and Eli Sharabi, Hamas spokesman Abu Obeida announced Monday evening that the terror organization is “postponing the continuation of the deal until further notice.”

In response, an Israeli official stated that while Hamas’ announcement is concerning, there is still sufficient time to address and resolve the crisis before Saturday. According to reports published by Ynet, the official believes that Hamas ultimately intends to carry out the upcoming exchange phases.

Hamas’ Psychological Warfare

Israeli negotiators assess that Hamas’ statement is primarily a pressure tactic, designed to maximize the terror group’s gains while engaging in psychological warfare. Hamas itself admitted as much, declaring in a separate statement: “The postponement of hostage releases is a warning signal to Israel and a means of exerting pressure for strict compliance with the terms of the agreement.”

Hamas deliberately issued this announcement five days before the scheduled handover, aiming to give mediators ample time to pressure Israel into fulfilling its obligations while keeping the door open for the exchange to proceed as planned. Against this backdrop, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has advanced the security cabinet meeting to Tuesday morning.

“A Complete Violation of the Ceasefire Agreement”

Earlier, Defense Minister Israel Katz responded to Hamas’ announcement, stating: “Hamas’ decision to halt the release of Israeli hostages is a complete violation of the ceasefire agreement and the hostage release deal. I have instructed the IDF to prepare for the highest level of readiness for any possible scenario in Gaza and to defend Israeli communities. We will not allow a return to the reality of October 7.”

Hamas Is the One Violating the Agreement

Israeli officials earlier today accused Hamas of repeated breaches of the agreement. The Israeli negotiating delegation, which returned from Doha early this morning, made clear to mediating nations that Hamas’ conduct—its violations of the agreement, its hostile rhetoric, and its false claims that Israel is not upholding the deal—could escalate tensions and jeopardize the entire process.

During negotiations, the delegation also addressed Hamas’ allegations that Israel is preventing humanitarian aid from entering Gaza. Israeli sources refuted these claims, stating, “The accusations have been investigated and found to be baseless.”

The talks in Doha also focused on the condition of the hostages, particularly Ohad Ben Ami, Or Levi, and Eli Sharabi, who suffered from prolonged starvation while in captivity.

Hamas Seeks to Manipulate Mediators

Hamas’ spokesman declared Monday night that the terror group is “postponing until further notice” the release of three hostages who were set to be freed this coming Saturday. The spokesperson claimed that the delay would remain in effect until Israel recommits to the agreement and provides “compensation” for recent events.

Hamas also called on mediators to pressure Israel, insisting that it comply with the “terms of the ceasefire.” In a statement to Saudi media, Hamas asserted: “We will resume handing over Israeli hostages once Israel fulfills its commitments.”