Hamas warns that occupation army is delaying withdrawal from Philadelphi corridor

The Islamic Resistance Movement yesterday warned the Israeli occupation army not to delay its withdrawal from the Philadelphi corridor in the central Gaza Strip on the date set by the ceasefire agreement. Hamas called on mediators to put pressure on the occupation regime to fulfil its commitments under the agreement, including withdrawal by the 50th day, and resuming negotiations for the second phase.

The movement issued a statement condemning Israel’s violation of the ceasefire agreement by not adhering to the timetable for withdrawal from the Salah al-Din (Philadelphi) corridor, saying that this violation is a blatant attempt to abort the agreement.

“The occupation did not adhere to the agreement to gradually reduce its forces during the first phase and did not begin its withdrawal on the scheduled date,” explained Hamas. “The withdrawal was supposed to take place on Sunday, but has not happened yet. This blatant violation represents a clear breach of the agreement and a blatant attempt to abort it.”

Calling on the mediators — Egypt, Qatar and the US — as well as the international community to intervene immediately to put pressure on Israel “to fulfil its promises”, it pointed out that adherence to the agreement is the “only way” to ensure the return of the captives. “Stop interfering with their fate,” said Hamas. “Any procrastination is an interference in their fate and the emotions of their families.”

The ceasefire agreement which into effect in the Gaza Strip on 19 January included a prisoner exchange deal between Hamas and Israel. It was agreed to be in three phases, each lasting 42 days. Israel has refused to move to the second phase since the first ended in early March.

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