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Israel Restricts Movement in Northern Gaza Amid Dispute Over Captive Release

Aishath NashathaAishath Nashatha

25 January 2025 - 11:44

The Israeli military has imposed restrictions on the return of Palestinians to northern Gaza, a move described by analysts as an attempt to pressure Palestinians amidst disagreements over captive release arrangements.

Earlier today, Israel secured the release of four female soldiers held in Gaza. However, Arbel Yehud, a civilian woman expected to be among those freed, was not included in the final list, creating a point of contention in the ongoing negotiations.

Hassan Barari, a professor of international affairs at Qatar University, referred to the dispute as a "speed bump" in the ceasefire deal but expressed confidence that both Israel and Hamas would resolve the issue. "The first phase of the ceasefire agreement will proceed despite these challenges," Barari told Al Jazeera.

Barari added that while further obstacles might arise in the coming days or weeks, it is not in Israel's interest to derail the entire process. The movement restrictions and delays highlight the fragility of the ceasefire and the complexities of negotiations between the two sides.

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