Hamas considers suspending talks with Israel unless prisoners freed

The Palestinian extremist group Hamas is considering suspending indirect negotiations with Israel.

Senior Hamas leader Mahmoud Mardawi wrote on Telegram that the group would not engage in ceasefire discussions until Israel released around 600 Palestinian prisoners who were due to be freed on Saturday.

Dpa learned from Hamas circles that a final decision has yet to be made and the group is coordinating with the mediators.

Hamas on Saturday handed over six hostages to Red Cross representatives in the Gaza Strip.

In return for the men's release, Israel was set to free more than 600 Palestinian prisoners, including 50 serving life sentences, according to Palestinian information.

However, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office then announced it was delaying the release of the prisoners.

Their release was on hold "until the release of the next hostages has been assured, and without the humiliating ceremonies," Netanyahu's office said in a statement.

A multi-stage ceasefire agreement that began on January 19, stipulates that during the first six-week phase, a total of 33 hostages will be gradually released in exchange for 1,904 Palestinian prisoners.

The second phase of the agreement should lead to a definitive end to the war and to the release of the remaining hostages, but it is unclear whether it can actually be implemented.

Hamas wants a permanent ceasefire and full Israeli withdrawal. Israel is insisting on its war aim of completely destroying Hamas. More than 60 hostages are still being held in the Gaza Strip, about half of whom are no longer believed to be alive.