Gaza Strip – Hamas has accused Israel of obstructing efforts to recover the remains of the last Israeli prisoner held in the Gaza Strip. Hazem Qassem, a spokesperson for the organization, stated that Hamas has provided all available information regarding the prisoner and has cooperated fully with search efforts.
Qassem further alleged that Israel is deliberately hindering the search in areas beyond the established boundaries, known as the ‘yellow line.’ He accused Israel of exploiting the situation to avoid fulfilling its obligations under the first phase of the Gaza ceasefire agreement.
“Hamas remains ready to cooperate with mediators and guarantor countries in any endeavor aimed at finding the remains of the last prisoner,” Qassem affirmed.
Meanwhile, several European nations are reportedly considering withdrawing their personnel from the US-led Civil-Military Coordination Center (CMCC) in Gaza, according to diplomatic sources. These nations reportedly believe that the CMCC has failed to significantly increase the flow of aid into the Gaza Strip or achieve any meaningful political change.
Sources indicate that officials from some European countries have not returned to the CMCC, located near the Gaza border, since the Christmas and New Year holidays. Some governments are now contemplating reducing their presence or completely ceasing participation in the center.
Several countries are reportedly questioning the CMCC’s effectiveness, with one Western diplomat describing it as “directionless.” Another diplomat noted, “Everyone thinks it’s a disaster, but there is no alternative.”
The coordination between the CMCC and other bodies involved in Gaza, including the Palestinian Experts Committee, remains unclear. Furthermore, there has been no substantial increase in humanitarian aid entering Gaza since the ceasefire agreement came into effect on October 10th of last year.
Reports also suggest that many of the trucks entering Gaza are carrying commercial goods, while Israel maintains de facto control over aid policies in the region. Israel has yet to offer any concessions regarding the aid situation.
