Hamas says extending 1st phase of Gaza ceasefire ‘unacceptable’ Hamas accuses Israel of \”evading the commitment to end the war and withdraw completely from Gaza\” Earlier Hamas has handed over four bodies of Israeli hostages to the Red Cross in Gaza. Israel had delayed the release of more than 600 Palestinian prisoners since Saturday to protest what it called the cruel treatment of hostages during their handover by Hamas. The militant group called the delay a \”serious violation\” of the ceasefire and said talks on a second phase are not possible until the Palestinians are freed. The 42-day initial phase of the three-stage agreement between Hamas and Israel expired, with no breakthrough announced for its next phase. The release comes days before the first phase of their ceasefire will end, with Hamas saying they will not negotiate until all prisoners are freed from the Gaza Strip. For confidential support call the Samaritans on 08457 90 90 90, visit a local Samaritans branch or see www.samaritans.org for details. In the U.S. call the National Suicide Prevention Line on 1-800-273-8255 or visit www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org.
