Israel delays release of 620 Palestinian prisoners over Hamas hostage displays

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced a delay in the release of 620 Palestinian prisoners. This decision follows Hamas' use of "humiliating ceremonies" during the release of Israeli hostages, which Israel views as a violation of the ceasefire agreement. Hamas has released 25 Israeli hostages since the ceasefire began on January 19. The latest swap involved six Israeli captives, while Israel postponed the release of Palestinian prisoners that was expected to occur immediately afterward. Hamas criticized Israel's delay as a "blatant violation" of the truce. The Palestinian Prisoners' Club had anticipated the release of the prisoners, most of whom were Gazans detained during the conflict.