ALBAWABA- Hamas announced Tuesday that it will release six living Israeli hostages and hand over four bodies as part of the first phase of the Gaza ceasefire agreement. The exchange is set to take place on Saturday, February 22.
So far, 19 out of 33 Israeli hostages slated for release under the agreement have been freed in exchange for more than 1,100 Palestinian prisoners. Israel claims that eight of the remaining captives are dead.
Additionally, five Thai nationals held since the 2023 attack have been released separately from the truce deal.
Hamas negotiator Khalil al-Hayya emphasized the group's commitment to the ceasefire deal, stating, "Hamas has proven its seriousness in implementing the agreement with full responsibility. The occupation and Netanyahu's government are responding with procrastination and attempts to evade."
He also called for Israel to fully comply with the terms of the agreement. The group has scheduled the transfer of the four bodies for Thursday as part of the deal.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office confirmed the arrangements, stating that indirect negotiations in Cairo led to an agreement for the release of the six hostages on Saturday.
However, the first phase of the truce is set to expire on March 1, and discussions about a long-term ceasefire have not yet begun.
Despite accusations of violations from both sides, the ceasefire has held. However, tensions have been exacerbated by U.S. President Donald Trump's controversial plan to take control of Gaza and relocate its population.
A Hamas official and sources close to the talks revealed that discussions on a second phase of the deal could begin this week in Doha. Qatar, a key mediator, emphasized that the future of Gaza must be decided by Palestinians.
Meanwhile, Israeli officials quoted by Yedioth Ahronoth confirmed that the next round of talks will be political, focusing on terms for ending the war. They also noted that Israel has agreed to allow limited temporary housing and heavy equipment into Gaza.
