US downplays threat to Gaza ceasefire as Hamas delays in hostage body recovery
Key Takeaways
- The US insists the Gaza ceasefire negotiations remain on track despite Hamas delays in returning the bodies of Israeli hostages.
- Hamas has released all 20 living hostages but has only returned 11 of the 28 required bodies, citing technical challenges in the search.
- Senior US advisers report that talks with mediators remain 'positive,' suggesting Hamas still intends to honor the deal.
- Israel is preparing to open the Rafah crossing for Gazan movement, but humanitarian aid will be restricted to other checkpoints.
- Independent reporting from Gaza remains severely limited due to Israel barring international media access.
The United States is attempting to quell concerns regarding the stability of the Gaza ceasefire agreement after Hamas failed to meet the full requirement for returning Israeli remains, having only returned 11 of the 28 bodies stipulated in the first phase. All 20 living hostages required for this stage have been released, but the delay in body returnsāincluding two identified Thursday morningāhas raised questions. Hamas has cited technical difficulties in locating the remaining bodies and has allegedly requested specialized search equipment to proceed. Nevertheless, senior U.S. advisers indicated late Wednesday that discussions with mediators remain positive, implying Hamasās continued commitment to the overall peace plan. Concurrently, Israel is making preparations to open the Rafah crossing to allow some movement for Gazan residents, though humanitarian aid will be channeled exclusively through more controlled entry points. International media access to Gaza remains severely restricted by Israeli limitations.
