New tensions between Israel and Hamas are raising doubts about prospects for second phase of ceasefire and hostage deal in Gaza.

The delayed release of 600 Palestinian prisoners will reportedly go ahead when Hamas returns four Israeli hostages' bodies.

The first phase of the ceasefire that paused 15 months of brutal warfare between Israel and Hamas militants is set to end on Saturday — and it's unclear what comes next. The two sides were supposed to start negotiating a second phase weeks ago in which Hamas would release all the remaining hostages from its Oct.

Israel and Hamas accuse each other of deliberately breaking first phase of the fragile truce, which is set to expire on Saturday

Israel said Tuesday that it "might" be possible to extend the first phase of its fragile ceasefire with Hamas in Gaza in return for hostages. Israeli Deputy Foreign Minister Sharren Haskel accused Hamas of "violently disobeying" the ceasefire's terms by holding ceremonies before releasing captives.