Israel has announced a delay in the release of over 100 Palestinian prisoners following what Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu described as 'horrific scenes' during a hostage handover in Gaza. The prisoners were scheduled to be released as part of the ongoing Gaza ceasefire and hostage deal.
The decision to postpone the release was made by Prime Minister Netanyahu and Defense Minister Yisrael Katz to ensure the safe exit of Israeli hostages. The Israeli government has demanded assurances from the mediators of the ceasefire deal regarding the safety of the hostages.
While seven of the eight hostages were released in Khan Younis, southern Gaza, the handover was marred by chaotic scenes with armed militants from Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad escorting the hostages through a large crowd. Prime Minister Netanyahu condemned the incident as 'shocking' and criticized the brutality of Hamas.
On a different note, Israeli soldier Agam Berger was released in northern Gaza by Hamas in a more subdued manner earlier in the day. The Hamas Prisoner Media Office indicated that the group expected the 110 prisoners set for release to include children, individuals serving life sentences, and those with lengthy prison terms.
The delay in the prisoner release underscores the challenges and tensions surrounding the Gaza ceasefire and hostage negotiations. The Israeli government remains firm in its stance on ensuring the safety and well-being of its citizens amidst the complex dynamics of the region.
