Israel has indefinitely postponed the release of over 600 Palestinian prisoners, citing concerns over the conditions of the ongoing hostage-prisoner exchange.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that the delay would remain in effect until the next scheduled handover of hostages by Hamas is assured, without what he described as “humiliating” public displays. The announcement follows the return of six Israeli hostages, including two who had been held in Gaza for nearly a decade.
The first phase of the ceasefire agreement is set to conclude on March 1, with no clear arrangements yet for the second phase, which would involve additional hostage releases. Negotiations between Israel and Hamas, expected to finalize the terms of the next stage, have yet to take place.
Hamas condemned the delay, calling it an attempt by Israel to avoid fulfilling its commitments. According to Palestinian authorities, many of the prisoners set for release have been detained since October 7, with some serving life or long-term sentences.
Meanwhile, families of hostages and prisoners gathered outside detention centers and public squares, anxiously awaiting further developments. Mediators are working urgently to prevent the ceasefire agreement from unraveling.
