Israel has confirmed the transfer of four bodies, believed to be Israeli hostages, by Hamas as part of a larger ceasefire deal. The bodies of Shlomo Mansour (86), Ohad Yahalomi (50), Tsachi Idan (50), and Itzik Elgarat (69), who were taken during the October 7, 2023 attack, have been handed over to Israel via Red Cross vehicles. DNA tests are being conducted to confirm their identities.
This marks the completion of the first phase of a deal brokered between Israel and Hamas, which included the release of over 600 Palestinian prisoners. Although Israel had initially planned to release the prisoners over the weekend, the process was delayed in protest over what it called “humiliating” hostage handover ceremonies.
In contrast to previous handovers, Hamas did not stage a ceremony for this transfer, following Israeli objections. The ceasefire agreement is set to expire on Saturday.
How many hostages have been released from Gaza?
In this first phase of the ceasefire deal – which was due to end on Saturday – 33 Israeli hostages are supposed to be exchanged for about 1,900 Palestinian prisoners and detainees.
So far, 25 living hostages and eight dead hostages have been released – a total of 33.
The four dead hostages released tonight are the last to be returned under this phase of the deal. We’re still awaiting DNA confirmation from Israel that the bodies are of the four people who were expected.
Five living Thai hostages have also been freed, outside the deal.
