Israel delays prisoner release, jeopardizing fragile ceasefire with Hamas

Israel has postponed the release of over 600 Palestinian prisoners, originally scheduled for Saturday, due to concerns over Hamas's "humiliating" hostage handover ceremonies. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu criticized Hamas for using hostages as propaganda. The delay affects the fragile ceasefire established on January 15, which aims to secure the release of hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners. Hamas had recently released six Israeli hostages, but Israel's decision to halt prisoner releases raises uncertainty about the agreement's future. Hamas condemned Israel's actions, claiming the ceremonies reflect humane treatment of captives. The ceasefire deal includes 33 hostage releases by Hamas in exchange for approximately 1,900 Palestinian prisoners over 42 days.