Tensions rise in Gaza as Hamas recalls fighters and ceasefire enters second day

NPC reporter
United Kingdom– Hamas has reportedly recalled several of its fighters from front-line positions amid rising fears of internal unrest in parts of Gaza, even as Israeli hospitals prepare to receive hostages expected to be released under the ongoing ceasefire agreement.

According to Gaza’s Hamas-run civil defense agency, rescue teams are continuing to dig through the rubble to locate the bodies of Palestinians still missing after weeks of heavy bombardment. Officials say around 9,500 people remain unaccounted for across the territory.

The fragile ceasefire between Israel and Hamas has now entered its second day, offering a brief respite from the conflict that has devastated much of Gaza. But tensions remain high, with both sides accusing each other of minor violations.

Under the terms of the Trump-brokered ceasefire deal, Hamas has until 12:00 local time (10:00 BST) on Monday to release all remaining Israeli hostages. In return, Israel is preparing to free approximately 1,700 detainees from Gaza and around 250 Palestinian prisoners held in Israeli jails.

However, BBC sources say Hamas is pushing for a larger number of prisoners to be released, complicating the next phase of negotiations.

Diplomatic officials describe the coming days as critical, with talks expected to resume through Qatari and Egyptian mediators. Analysts say progress will depend heavily on Donald Trump’s continued engagement, as he seeks to consolidate the first major breakthrough in the conflict since the escalation began.

For now, many families in Israel and Gaza are waiting anxiously — some for the return of loved ones, others for news of those still missing beneath the ruins.