The stage-managed spectacle of Israeli hostages being released in Gaza serves political interests on both sides. Hamas’ assertions that it is still in power bolster the argument that Prime Minister Netanyahu still has a job to do.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ordered a delay in the planned release of terrorists, seeking assurance regarding the release of hostages, but the prime minister's office later indicated that the demand had been satisfied.

The increasingly theatrical and threatening events have angered Israel and put a cease-fire deal at risk.