A Hamas spokesman for the group’s armed wing urged renewed and broader confrontations against Israel, saying resistance should intensify on all fronts. Israel responded by warning that the ceasefire set to begin in the Gaza Strip does not signal an end to the fight against Hamas.
In an interview with a major regional broadcaster, the spokesperson called for intensified confrontations against the occupation in the West Bank and across all fronts of resistance. The remarks followed the announcement of a Friday ceasefire arrangement that includes the release of a number of Palestinian prisoners in exchange for the first group of hostages seized by Hamas on October 7. Earlier reporting indicates the plan would involve a total of 300 prisoners convicted of attacks on Israeli security forces in the West Bank and East Jerusalem.
Israeli officials then stressed that the ceasefire would be temporary and not a halt to military operations against Hamas. A government minister stated that there is no intention to end the war and that any extension of the ceasefire would hinge on Hamas meeting its obligations. The minister also expressed cautious optimism about the release of thirteen hostages but remained skeptical until those hopes materialize.
Meanwhile, the matter of a ceasefire was put forward in statements from regional mediators. The framework calls for a four-day pause during which a first group of hostages would be freed. The exchange is described as a step within broader efforts to address the crisis created by the October 7 Hamas attack, with negotiations continuing to shape the sequence and scope of releases.
Officials emphasized that credibility and trust are central to any future arrangements. The discussions continue despite fierce disagreement over timing, scope, and the conditions attached to any prisoner releases or additional hostage exchanges. The evolving situation keeps both sides under intense international scrutiny as international actors monitor developments and push for a sustainable and peaceful resolution to the conflict.
As the ceasefire discussions proceed, observers note the delicate balance between humanitarian concerns and security priorities. The regional dynamics, the political calculations in Jerusalem and beyond, and the impact on civilians in Gaza and the West Bank remain at the heart of ongoing deliberations. Analysts say that the public statements by leaders and representatives reflect a broader strategic contest: the pursuit of leverage, the projection of strength, and the search for a path back to stability amid an escalated cycle of violence.