Hamas Releases Video of Israeli Hostage, Demands Second Phase of Detente

Hamas has publicly released a video showing an Israeli hostage alive and held in Gaza following the October 7th attack on southern Israel. The video, lasting several minutes, reveals the identity of the captive and includes a message to his family. The hostage, held by Hamas, calls on Israeli authorities to implement the second phase of the detente agreement, which came into effect on January 19th. The first phase ended on March 1st. The French Agency was unable to confirm the authenticity of the video and did not disclose the hostage’s name, awaiting family approval. The detente agreement previously facilitated the release of 33 hostages, eight of whom were deceased, in exchange for the release of approximately 1,800 Palestinian prisoners. However, Hamas and Israel disagree on continuing the process. Israel seeks an extension of the first phase until mid-April, demanding the ‘full demilitarization’ of the enclave, withdrawal of Hamas from the Gaza Strip, and return of remaining hostages before proceeding to the second phase. Conversely, Hamas insists on implementing the second phase of the agreement, leading to a permanent ceasefire, while maintaining its presence in Gaza, which it has governed since 2007. Out of the 251 people abducted during the October 7, 2023, Hamas attack against Israel, 58 remain detained in Gaza, with 34 confirmed dead by the Israeli military.