Hamas accuses Israel of stalling ceasefire, prisoner exchange implementation

GAZA CITY, Palestine

Palestinian resistance movement Hamas accused Israel on Saturday of "procrastinating" in implementing the current ceasefire and prisoner exchange agreement.

In a statement, Hamas said: “The (Israeli) occupation continues to procrastinate in implementing the terms of the ceasefire and prisoner exchange agreement by keeping (coastal) Al-Rashid Street closed and preventing displaced pedestrians from returning from the south to the north (Gaza Strip).”

"We hold the occupation responsible for any delays in implementing the agreement and the repercussions this may have on subsequent phases,” added Hamas.

The ceasefire began on Jan. 19 and continued Saturday with a second prisoner exchange.

*Writing by Rania Abu Shamala