Israel and Hamas accused each other of violating the fragile cease-fire deal in Gaza after Israel postponed the release of hundreds of Palestinian prisoners who were supposed to be exchanged for hostages. Israel’s Prime Minister’s office stated that the prisoners would not be released until the release of further hostages was guaranteed and Hamas committed to releasing them without “humiliating ceremonies.” The delay in the release of prisoners has heightened tensions between both sides, with the temporary, six-week truce set to expire at the end of the week. Some members of Israel’s right-wing government are pushing for a resumption of fighting after the first phase of the cease-fire. On Saturday, Hamas released six Israeli hostages, including the last living captives in the first phase of the cease-fire, and earlier handed over the remains of four hostages. Israel was supposed to release 620 Palestinian prisoners and detainees in return, but delayed the move, citing Hamas’s “cynical exploitation” of the hostages for propaganda purposes. Hamas has been releasing hostages in performative ceremonies aimed at showing control over Gaza, which has been condemned by Israeli officials. Israeli officials have called past Hamas videos showing hostages a form of “psychological warfare” and experts say the production of such videos can constitute a war crime.

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/02/23/world/middleeast/israel-and-hamas-trade-accusations-of-violating-fragile-cease-fire.html