Hamas’ armed wing, Ezzedine al-Qassam Brigades, announced a delay in handing over a second group of hostages, citing concerns about Israel adhering to the terms of the ceasefire agreement. Issues related to humanitarian aid entry into the north of Gaza and criteria for releasing prisoners prompted the postponement. The hostage release, part of a four-day truce with Israel, involves exchanging Palestinian prisoners at a ratio of three to one for hostages seized during Hamas attacks on southern Israel in October. While a Hamas source mentioned the start of the handover, the process was subsequently halted. Israel insists it has not violated the agreement.
