Hamas fails to fulfil obligations to Israel

Israel will continue strikes on the Gaza Strip in response to Hamas's failure to meet the terms of the ceasefire and hostage release agreement. This was announced by IDF spokesperson Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari, according to the Times of Israel.

He stated that as of the morning of 19 January, Hamas had not fulfilled its obligations by failing to hand over to Israel the names of the hostages who were due to be released on that day.

The military official emphasised that, in accordance with instructions from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, the ceasefire would not take effect until Hamas had met all the terms of the agreement. "The IDF will continue to strike Gaza until Hamas fulfils its obligations under the agreement," Hagari added.

Thus, Israel insists that Hamas must meet its obligations before the ceasefire begins.