Israel postpones Palestinian prisoner release after Hamas frees six hostages

Israel has postponed the release of Palestinian prisoners after Hamas freed six hostages. Prime Minister Netanyahu's office cited Hamas's violations and the use of hostages for propaganda as reasons for the delay. The release of 602 Palestinian prisoners is now on hold. Hamas handed over the six hostages to the Red Cross in Gaza, including two who had been held for nearly ten years. The handover was marked by public displays and criticism from Israeli officials regarding the treatment of hostages during the event. The hostage release is part of a ceasefire agreement that began on January 19. So far, 25 hostages have been released, with more expected. However, the future of the agreement remains uncertain, as tensions between Israel and Hamas continue.