Israel delays release of Palestinian prisoners as tensions rise in ceasefire negotiations

Israel has postponed the release of 620 Palestinian prisoners, previously scheduled for Saturday, until Hamas meets its conditions. This decision highlights ongoing tensions in the fragile ceasefire agreement between the two sides. Hamas recently handed over six hostages, the last living Israeli captives from the first phase of the ceasefire. However, Israel's announcement followed accusations of ceasefire violations by both parties. The ceasefire, which began on January 19, has allowed for some hostage exchanges, but the situation remains unstable. Talks for the next phase of the agreement are set to begin, focusing on the return of remaining hostages.