Hamas halts ceasefire talks with Israel over prisoner release dispute

Hamas has stated it will halt negotiations with Israel on a ceasefire unless Palestinian prisoners are released as previously agreed. This comes after Israel announced a delay in releasing hundreds of prisoners until Hamas fulfills its obligations. Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office confirmed the delay, stating they would not release 620 Palestinian prisoners until the next hostages' release is assured. This decision follows concerns over recent handovers by Hamas that were deemed disrespectful. Hamas has labeled Israel's delay as a "blatant violation" of the truce. The situation remains tense as both sides await further developments in the negotiations.