Hamas Vice Commander Arouri Rules Out Prisoner Exchange Until Gaza Ceasefire

3-12-2023 (GAZA) The Deputy Commander of Hamas, Arouri, informed Al Jazeera that there would be no further exchanges of detained hostages for Israeli prisoners until a ceasefire is established in Gaza. The US Vice President and Secretary of Defense have both stressed the paramount importance of Israel safeguarding the lives of Gazan civilians.

According to Reuters, Arouri stated on Saturday (December 2) that Hamas still holds hostages, including Israeli soldiers and civilians who previously served in the Israeli military. He insisted that the hostages would not be released unless there is a ceasefire in Gaza, accompanied by the release of all detained Palestinians.

Arouri asserted, “Let the war take its course; this decision is final. We will not compromise on this.”

As the temporary ceasefire between Israel and Hamas expired, the Israeli military resumed attacks on Gaza, with particular intensity in the southern towns of Khan Yunis and Rafah, causing alarming civilian casualties.

During a press conference at the COP28 summit, US Vice President Harris stated, “How Israel defends itself is crucial. The United States is clear that international humanitarian law must be respected. Too many innocent Palestinians have been killed. We believe Israel must take more measures to protect innocent civilians.” The United States is increasingly urging Israel to narrow the scope of its attacks in southern Gaza and ensure the safety of Palestinian civilians.

Secretary of Defense Austin, speaking at the Reagan Defense Forum in Simi Valley, California, personally urged Israeli leaders to avoid civilian casualties, prevent “irresponsible rhetoric,” and deter violence from West Bank settlers.

“In conflict, the focus should be on civilians. If you push them into the enemy’s arms, strategic failure will replace tactical victory,” Austin emphasized. “Therefore, I have repeatedly made it clear to Israeli leaders that protecting Palestinian civilians in Gaza is both a moral responsibility and a strategic imperative.”

Harris added that in the future, the US “hopes to see a unified Gaza and West Bank under the leadership of the Palestinian Authority,” signaling that Hamas should no longer govern Gaza. Before the Palestinian Authority’s security forces are strengthened, there must be “security arrangements acceptable to Israel, the people of Gaza, the Palestinian Authority, and international partners.”