Hamas released six hostages from Gaza on Saturday. Israel was due to release 620 Palestinian detainees in return, but has delayed the exchange citing further security reviews.

Hamas on Saturday released the last six living hostages expected under the first phase of its ceasefire with Israel with a week remaining, as questions over the next phase clouded the deal 's future.

The hostages are the last living hostages to be freed in the first phase of a fragile deal with Israel, adding to pressure for both sides to start negotiations to permanently end the war.