**Gaza Ceasefire at Risk**
The ceasefire agreement in Gaza is on the brink of collapse. Hamas says it will not discuss further steps until Palestinian prisoners are released. Israel has delayed the release of 600 Palestinians, saying Hamas has repeatedly violated the deal.
**Hamas Accuses Israel**
A senior Hamas official said Israel’s decision exposes the entire agreement to a “grave risk”. He called on mediators, including the US, to put pressure on Israel. The UN Secretary General warned that the ceasefire is “precarious” and should be avoided at all costs.
**Hostages Released**
Hamas released six Israeli hostages alive on Saturday, but their return was marred by controversy. Five of them were led onto a stage alongside armed fighters before being transferred to the Red Cross. A video showed two other hostages watching a handover ceremony in a car and begging for release.
**Body Mix-up**
Earlier this week, Hamas handed over the bodies of four hostages, including Shiri Bibas and her sons Ariel and Kfir. However, it was later revealed that Hamas had given back the wrong body – a Palestinian woman’s remains instead of Ms. Bibas’. The group claimed there was an error.
**Israel Suspends Release**
The Israeli prime minister suspended the release of 620 Palestinian prisoners after consulting with ministers. He accused Hamas of repeated violations, including “humiliating handover ceremonies”. Hamas has denounced Israel’s decision as “blatantly violating” the deal.
**Ceasefire at Risk**
The first phase of the ceasefire agreement is due to expire on Saturday, but indirect negotiations about the second phase and the end of the war have yet to begin. The UN Secretary General warned that a return to hostilities should be avoided at all costs.
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