Israel halted Palestinian returns to northern Gaza after Hamas failed to release civilian hostage Arbel Yehud in Saturday's prisoner exchange, even though they had promised to do it. Israel is intensifying negotiations for her freedom within the next two days.
Israeli officials have set a midnight deadline for Hamas to provide a complete list of hostages and their conditions. "We anticipated some maneuvering, but this is a clear violation, regardless of Hamas' internal dynamics in Gaza," a senior Israeli official stated.
The move came after Hamas released four female IDF soldiers - Karina Ariev, Daniella Gilboa, Naama Levy, and Liri Albag - but broke the agreement's terms by not prioritizing civilian hostages. Israeli intelligence has confirmed Yehoud, from Kibbutz Nir Oz, is alive and held by Palestinian Islamic Jihad.
"Palestinians will not be able to travel to northern Gaza until Arbel's release," the Prime Minister's Office announced, disrupting a key element of the ceasefire deal that would have allowed civilian returns via the coastal road.
Mediators and U.S. officials are working to resolve the standoff.
A potential compromise could see Yehud released earlier this week, which would allow northern Gaza residents to return sooner, sources familiar with negotiations say.
Saudi media outlet al-Hadath also reported that Israel might lift the restriction following confirmation of Yehud's status. Hamas responded that it awaits IDF withdrawal from designated areas before facilitating civilian returns, suggesting Yehud's release could occur before next weekend.
The dispute threatens to complicate the broader hostage deal, under which Israel freed 200 Palestinian prisoners in exchange for Saturday's releases. Mediators are working to secure Yehud's freedom before next Saturday's planned exchange.
This development adds tension to an already complex negotiation process. The IDF maintains proof of Yehud's survival, while diplomatic channels through Qatar and Egypt continue efforts to broker her release.
UPDATE: Hamas claims they provided video footage of Arbel Yehud to prove she is alive, but Israel denies it.
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