Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has threatened to halt the commencement of tomorrow morning’s agreed ceasefire in Gaza until Hamas releases a list of names for the first set of freed hostages.
Under the agreement, which would see fighting end at 6.30am local time (4.30am GMT), Hamas is obliged to provide the names of the remaining hostages at least 24 hours ahead of their release.
A total of 33 hostages are expected to be released over the next six weeks, with Israel also releasing hundreds of imprisoned Palestinians.
Hamas was expected to name the first set of hostages at 4pm local time (2pm GMT).
In a statement, Netanyahu said: “We will not move forward with the outline until we receive a list of the hostages to be freed, as agreed.”
He added: “Israel will not tolerate violations of the agreement. The sole responsibility lies with Hamas.”
IDF soldiers who were captured will likely be released in the second phase of negotiations.
Hamas is expected to request a lasting ceasefire and full Israeli withdrawal from the Strip.
Following his statement, Netanyahu is expected to address the nation for the first time since the ceasefire-hostage deal was reached.
Hamas snatched around 250 Israeli during its horrific October 7 attack last year.
British-Israeli Emily Damari, 28, was among those taken hostage from her home in Kibbutz Kfar Azaon.
However, the world will now wait with bated breath to see if Hamas release the name of the hostages to prevent the ceasefire deal being torn up altogether.
The IDF has already completed preparations for receiving the first set of hostages.
The military established three complexes near the Gaza border, at the Re’im base, the Kerem Shalom Crossing, and the Erez Crossing, where the hostages will meet with IDF representatives.
Doctors, psychologists, and mental health officers will be on hand to provide initial treatment after crossing into Israel.
The group of hostages will also be taken to hospitals in Israel where they will meet their families.