No ceasefire talks unless Israel frees prisoners, says Hamas

Talks with Israel about the next stages of the Gaza ceasefire deal are subject to Palestinian prisoners being released, in line with the agreement, the BBC reported on February 24th.

On February 23rd, Israel said it was postponing the release of over 600 Palestinians in exchange for four dead and six living hostages who had been released, alleging that Hamas has carried out continued breaches such as “humiliating” ceremonies for the handover process.

The move exposed the deal to “grave danger,” according to a senior Hamas official, who urged mediators, particularly the US, to put pressure on Israel.

Phase one of the deal and the initial six-week truce is due to expire on March 1st.

BBC