The six Israelis were the last living captives set to be released in the first phase of the cease-fire. The agreement, strained for weeks, has an uncertain future.

Israel accused Hamas of subjecting its hostages to humiliation, while Hamas said the delayed release of Palestinian prisoners is a violation of the ceasefire deal.

Hamas is in the process of releasing six Israeli hostages in Gaza – the final living captives whom the warring sides agreed would be released when a ceasefire began last month.