Hamas is in the process of releasing six Israeli hostages in Gaza – the final living captives whom the warring sides agreed would be released when a ceasefire began last month.

Hamas on Saturday released the last six living hostages expected under the first phase of its ceasefire with Israel with a week remaining, as questions over the next phase clouded the deal 's future.

The hostages are the last living hostages to be freed in the first phase of a fragile deal with Israel, adding to pressure for both sides to start negotiations to permanently end the war.