Netanyahu delays Palestinian prisoner release over Hamas treatment of hostages
ndtv.com —
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced a delay in releasing Palestinian prisoners as part of a ceasefire deal with Hamas. The delay is linked to Hamas's treatment of Israeli hostages during their release, which Israel described as "humiliating ceremonies." Hamas has released 25 Israeli hostages since the ceasefire began on January 19, but Israel was expected to free over 600 Palestinian prisoners. The Palestinian group criticized Israel's decision as a "blatant violation" of the agreement. The ceasefire deal, which has allowed for the release of 30 captives, is set to expire in early March. Negotiations for a second phase of the deal have not yet started.