Daijiworld Media Network - Jerusalem

Jerusalem, Feb 23: Israel has delayed the scheduled release of hundreds of Palestinian prisoners, demanding assurances from Hamas that hostages will not be subjected to staged “humiliating ceremonies” before their transfer. The move has raised concerns over the ongoing ceasefire agreement.

The release, part of a prisoner swap deal, was halted after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu objected to the way Hamas presented hostages in public events. The delay follows public outrage over the return of the bodies of Israeli mother Shiri Bibas and her two children, Ariel (4) and Kfir (10 months), who were allegedly killed in captivity.

Hamas, in turn, has accused Israel of violating the truce, with spokesperson Abdel Latif Al-Qanou blaming Netanyahu for “deliberate stalling.” Families of Palestinian prisoners, who had gathered in anticipation of their loved ones' release, were seen dispersing in disappointment.

The swap deal initially included the release of 602 inmates, among them several high-profile figures, including Nael Barghouti, the longest-serving Palestinian prisoner, and Ammar Zaban, a Hamas leader convicted of multiple deadly attacks. Around 100 of the released prisoners were to be deported, while others would return to Gaza, the West Bank, and East Jerusalem.

Meanwhile, tensions continue to rise as Israel insists on securing the return of all its hostages. Hamas has refused further releases without a permanent ceasefire and Israeli withdrawal from Gaza, conditions Netanyahu has rejected. With negotiations for the next phase of the ceasefire still uncertain, the situation remains fragile.