Hamas has said it won’t release the remaining captives without a lasting ceasefire and full Israeli withdrawal from Gaza. Netanyahu, with the backing of U.S. President Donald Trump's administration, says he’s committed to destroying Hamas’ military and governing capacities and returning all hostages, goals widely seen as mutually exclusive.

Israel will delay Saturday’s expected release of hundreds of Palestinian prisoners until the release of the next hostages is guaranteed and “and without the humiliating ceremonies,” according to a statement from the Israeli Prime Minister’s Office.