Israel postpones release of Palestinian prisoners over hostage ceremony concerns

Israel has postponed the release of 620 Palestinian prisoners, previously expected after Hamas released six Israeli hostages. The delay is linked to Israel's demand for assurance on future hostage handovers and its objection to public ceremonies surrounding the releases. The prisoner release was part of a ceasefire agreement, but Israel criticized Hamas for using hostages in staged displays. Hamas accused Israel of violating the deal by delaying the release, intensifying tensions over the ceasefire. Hamas plans to release four bodies next week, completing the first phase of the truce. Negotiations for the next phase are expected to be more challenging, with Hamas insisting on a lasting ceasefire and full Israeli withdrawal from Gaza.