Hamas delays captive release 'until further notice' accusing Israel of violating terms

Hamas said it would delay the release of the next tranch of Israeli captives "until further notice", accusing Israel of failing to comply with the terms of the ceasefire deal.

The movement was due to release some Israelis on Saturday in exchange for Palestinian prisoners and detainees.

However, Abu Obaida, spokesman for Hamas's armed wing, the Qassam Brigades, said it will be "postponed until further notice, pending the occupation's compliance and retroactive fulfilment of the past weeks' obligations".

"We reaffirm our commitment to the terms of the agreement as long as the occupation adheres to them," he added.

Abu Obaida said the delay would continue until Israel halted its attacks on Palestinians returning to their homes in Gaza and allowed aid into the enclave at previously agreed levels.

Israel's defence minister, Israel Katz, said Hamas's move was "a complete violation of the ceasefire agreement and the deal to release the hostages".

He said he had instructed the military "to prepare at the highest level of alert for any possible scenario in Gaza". 

Read more: Hamas delays captive release 'until further notice' accusing Israel of violating terms