Israel has delayed the release of 600 Palestinian prisoners as part of a ceasefire deal with Hamas. This decision follows Hamas’ release of six Israeli hostages on Saturday, with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu citing the “humiliating ceremonies” accompanying the releases as the reason for the delay.
Netanyahu’s office stated that the delay would last “until the release of the next hostages is ensured, without the humiliating ceremonies.”
Since the ceasefire began in January, Hamas has released 25 Israeli hostages, with the captives being paraded before crowds in Gaza.
These public displays have sparked controversy, with the International Red Cross urging for “dignified and private” exchanges.
In response, Hamas called Israel’s delay a “blatant violation” of the truce deal, accusing Israel of obstructing the release. “The failure to comply with the release… constitutes a blatant violation of the agreement,” said Hamas spokesperson Abdel Latif al-Qanou.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio echoed Israel’s position, warning that Hamas would be “destroyed” if it does not free all remaining hostages.
The delay is a significant point of tension in the ongoing conflict, as the truce’s first phase is set to expire in early March, and negotiations for a second phase have yet to commence.
