Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu says Hamas will release six hostages this week and Israel will allow Gazans to return to homes in the north from today Monday.

The hostages include Arbel Yehud – the civilian at the centre of a row which has led to Israel delaying the return of Gazans to northern Gaza.

Hamas released four soldiers on Saturday, but not Ms Yehud. Israel accused Hamas of breaching the ceasefire deal under which Israeli civilians were to be freed first in exchange for the release of Palestinian prisoners.

Since the ceasefire deal came into force in January 19, seven hostages and more than 200 prisoners have been released.