Hamas accuses Israel of altering names in prisoner swap list

Hamas has accused Israel of changing the names of 100 Palestinian prisoners on the list intended for release under the ongoing swap deal.

According to Israeli media, a Hamas source stated, “Israel changed almost 100 names of prisoners we wanted to release. It changed the entire list in a cunning and sophisticated way.”

The source did not specify which prisoners were affected but criticised Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for turning the matter “into a broad political problem in Israel.” He added, “We understand that, but there was no choice.”

Meanwhile, a representative of the Palestinian Authority expressed cautious optimism, noting that “there is still hope.” He suggested that if the United States, Saudi Arabia, or the United Arab Emirates were called upon to intervene, “Netanyahu may make concessions.”

The developments come as Israeli security agency Shabas (Israel Prisoner Service) began transferring Palestinian prisoners scheduled for release under the swap agreement on the night of October 11.

Israel’s government ratified a ceasefire with Hamas on October 10, clearing the way for hostilities in Gaza to be suspended within 24 hours and for the release of Israeli hostages within 72 hours.

The cabinet approved the deal roughly a day after mediators announced the agreement, which includes the release of Israeli hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners and a phased withdrawal of Israeli troops, under the initiative of US President Donald Trump to end the two-year conflict.

Khalil al-Hayya, head of the Hamas negotiating delegation, confirmed that he had received assurances from the United States and other mediators regarding the implementation of the peace deal with Israel.

By Tamilla Hasanova