Freeing of detainees, including top terrorists, goes ahead after Israel says mediators guarantee future 'safe passage' of hostages; Witkoff 'hopeful' deal's next stages will go ahead

Israel resumed the release of Palestinian prisoners following a delay Netanyahu ordered, citing concerns over the treatment of hostages during their release.

Israel on Thursday suspended the planned release of Palestinian prisoners after Gaza militants freed three Israeli hostages and five Thais amid chaotic scenes."Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, along with Defence Minister Israel Katz,

The soldiers, abducted on 7 October 2023, were seen waving and smiling before being transported to Israeli forces.

The first three Israeli hostages and 90 Palestinian captives were released Sunday, signs that a long-awaited cease-fire was taking effect in Gaza.

The Israeli leader pointed to the last-minute treatment of the seven hostages as ‘yet another proof of the unimaginable cruelty’ of Hamas.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ordered a delay in the planned release of terrorists, seeking assurance regarding the release of hostages, but the prime minister's office later indicated that the demand had been satisfied.