Israel-Hamas live updates: Israel signals start of Gaza ceasefire after delay; Hamas names first hostages set for release
NBCJan 19
Hamas: 'Positive Signals' Hostages to Be Released This Saturday
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Above: Palestinians continue their daily life at Bureij Refugee Camp in the Gaza Strip on Feb. 12, 2025. Image copyright: Moiz Salhi/Contributor/Anadolu via Getty Images
The Facts
Hamas said on Wednesday that there were "positive signals" that the next hostage-prisoner exchange will go on as planned this coming Saturday as mediators work to resolve the most recent dispute between Israel and the group. An Egyptian official said the two sides were close to an agreement.
Earlier this week, Hamas announced that it would indefinitely postpone the release of hostages over alleged Israeli violations of the cease-fire, namely shooting displaced civilians and restricting reconstruction aid. Israel has called up military reservists and threatened a return of "intense fighting."
US Sec. of State Marco Rubio said on Tuesday that Hamas cannot be allowed to use the cease-fire to "rebuild itself and recover strength." Rubio noted that no one "wants to see a resumption of hostilities," though he dismissed Hamas' claims regarding Israeli violations.
The Spin
Pro-establishment narrative
Preventing the collapse of the cease-fire in Gaza is imperative to both regional security and humanitarian concerns. Both sides must work through the issues on the table and continue negotiating, as no one benefits from a return to war.
Pro-Israel narrative
Unlike his predecessor, Trump has been a great friend to Israel and is committed to freeing the hostages from their terrorist captors. For too long, Israel has had its hands tied and been prevented from winning this war. Now, with a friendly administration in Washington, Israel can set the terms of the future.
Pro-Palestine narrative
It has been clear since day one that Netanyahu would do everything he could to sabotage the cease-fire and return to the war to ensure his political survival. Trump has taken the bait and is giving Netanyahu the needed cover to prevent negotiations from progressing. Indeed, why would Hamas move forward with a deal that Israel seeks to undermine?
