Hamas ‘will only release American-Israeli hostage if ceasefire is implemented’

Palestinians walk amid the rubble of destroyed homes and buildings in Jabaliya, northern Gaza Strip as mediators push for the second phase of a ceasefire agreement. Picture: AP Photo/Jehad Alshrafi

Hamas said it would only release an American-Israeli hostage and the bodies of four other hostages if Israel implements the existing ceasefire agreement in the Gaza Strip, calling it an “exceptional deal” aimed at getting the truce back on track.

A senior Hamas official said long-delayed talks over the ceasefire’s second phase would need to begin the day of the release and last no longer than 50 days.