Hamas has confirmed that it will release six additional hostages on Saturday, completing the first phase of the ceasefire agreement, and will hand over the bodies of four deceased captives on Thursday. This latest exchange follows a series of negotiations and six prior swaps between the two sides.
The hostages being released are part of a broader deal, with Hamas continuing to demand the release of hundreds of Palestinian prisoners held by Israel in exchange for the remaining hostages. One notable return is that of a member of the Bibas family, who was freed in early February, with the group now returning the remains of the family’s other members.
The Israeli government has acknowledged the exchange, confirming the return of four deceased hostages and the expected handover of another four next week. While the initial plan called for only three hostages to be released on Saturday, the announcement indicates an unexpected shift, though reasons for the change remain unclear.
This deal is part of the ongoing ceasefire, which began in mid-January, halting more than a year of intense conflict between Israel and Hamas. The ceasefire has allowed for aid to flow into Gaza and for many displaced Palestinians to return home. However, the next phase of the ceasefire, which involves the release of more hostages and the negotiation of a lasting ceasefire, faces significant hurdles.
Israel’s government remains focused on dismantling Hamas’ military and governing structure in Gaza, a challenge complicated by Hamas’ ability to reassert control despite heavy losses. Negotiations for the second, more complex phase of the ceasefire are set to take place in the coming days. Additionally, tensions are high over US President Donald Trump’s proposal to relocate Palestinians out of Gaza, a plan rejected by both the Arab world and Palestinians, but supported by Israel.
As the negotiations continue, both sides are bracing for the challenges ahead in the ongoing conflict.
Hamas hostages picture by AP CC-BY-4-0.
