We have prepared for their return, and along with their families, we will assist in their rehabilitation after a long and excruciating period of captivity.”Hamas's threatsNetanyahu also noted that Hamas threatened not to release the three men - alleging Israel had violated the ceasefire agreement.

The new demand seized on an ultimatum issued by President Trump, who said Tuesday that Hamas was unlikely to meet the deadline.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Tuesday that the ceasefire in Gaza would end if Hamas did not return hostages held in the enclave by noon on Saturday.