Palestinians await for news of the ceasefire agreement in Khan Younis, Southern Gaza. (Photo: TNYT)

Hamas announced earlier the same day that it would postpone the planned exchange of hostages and prisoners scheduled for February 15. Hamas said postponing the next release of hostages would serve as a “warning message” intended to pressure Israel to strictly adhere to the ceasefire agreement.

Hamas intended for this announcement to be made a full five days before the date of handing over the hostages to give the mediators sufficient opportunity to put pressure on Israel. Hamas said it has fully and punctually fulfilled all its obligations under the agreement.

Speaking to the press on Monday, US President Donald Trump warned of severe consequences if all hostages in Gaza are not returned by Saturday noon. Mr. Trump also said he might withhold aid to Jordan and Egypt if they don't take Palestinian refugees being relocated from Gaza. Mr. Trump said: “As far as I’m concerned, if all of the hostages aren’t returned by Saturday at 12 o’clock, I think it’s an appropriate time. I would say, cancel it and all bets are off.”

The UN human rights office on Monday described images of emaciated Israeli hostages and Palestinian detainees released as part of the Gaza ceasefire deal as distressing, saying they show signs of ill-treatment and severe malnourishment, reflecting very dire conditions they were subjected to in Gaza.

The UN human rights office said Israel and Hamas must ensure humane treatment for all those held under their power. Hamas must immediately and unconditionally release all hostages, and Israel must immediately and unconditionally release all those arbitrarily detained, it added.