Hamas has accused Israel of fabricating excuses to avoid meeting its obligations under the fragile Gaza ceasefire, hours after the release of more than 600 Palestinians was delayed.

Hamas has condemned the decision, and said the process delivering hostages to the custody of the International Red Cross reflected “humane and dignified treatment.”

“The Palestinian prisoners are released with their hands tied and blindfolded, and their families are threatened not to hold any celebrations to welcome their released sons”.

In recent weeks, Palestinians released from Israeli jails have emerged from behind bars emaciated and seriously unwell.

Hamas has also criticised Israel for repeated breaches of the ceasefire, delaying specific types of aid being delivered to Gaza and firing upon civilians.

The United Nations criticised Hamas’ display on Thursday, handing over four black coffins carrying the remains of Israeli hostages killed whilst in Hamas’ captivity, as degrading and failing to respect the dead and their families.

On Saturday, one of the living Israeli hostages freed by Hamas was seen kissing the head of the one of the armed Hamas fighters standing alongside him on stage in Nuseirat.

Omer Shem Tov’s father later told Israeli media his son had been directed by Hamas to smile, wave and kiss the man during the ceremony.

The current truce is due to expire on Sunday March 2, with little progress made so far on ‘phase two’ of the ceasefire.