Israel on Thursday suspended the planned release of Palestinian prisoners after Gaza militants freed three Israeli hostages and five Thais amid chaotic scenes.

"Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, along with Defence Minister Israel Katz, has instructed the delay of the release of the terrorists scheduled for today until the safe departure of our hostages in the upcoming phases is assured," Netanyahu's office said.

Israel had been due to free 110 prisoners, including 30 minors, in exchange for the three Israelis, the Palestinian Prisoners' Club advocacy group said earlier.

A Hamas source told AFP the group was in touch with mediators to "compel" Israel to release the 110 prisoners in the third exchange under the January 19 ceasefire deal aimed at ending the war in Gaza.

Israel later said it had received assurance from mediators over the future "safe release" of captives.

Another hostage and prisoner release had been scheduled for Saturday, with three Israeli men due to be set free.

The prisoner release setback came after militants in Gaza freed three Israeli hostages and five Thais captured in Hamas's October 7, 2023 attack on Israel.

Netanyahu denounced what he called "shocking scenes" during the hostage releases in Khan Yunis.

Television images showed gunmen struggling to control hundreds of Gazans there to witness the handover.

"This is yet another proof........

© Al Monitor