Hamas has announced they will release six Israeli captives and hand over the bodies of four others as part of the Gaza ceasefire agreement. The group’s leader in Gaza, Khalil al-Hayya, stated that these actions will take place this week in Gaza. The first phase of the truce, brokered by the US, Qatar, and Egypt, is set to expire on March 1, with negotiations for further stages yet to begin.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office confirmed the agreement on the release of captives, with talks expected to begin soon for the second phase of the ceasefire deal. Al Jazeera reported from Amman, Jordan, that this development could impact negotiations moving forward.
Former Israeli Foreign Ministry official Alon Liel noted the potential impact of Hamas returning the bodies and captives, saying it would be a day of mourning in Israel but preferable to receiving nothing. Israel seeks flexibility in talks for the second phase of the truce deal, with discussions expected to begin soon.
Despite the ceasefire, there have been violations by Israel in Gaza after its implementation, killing at least 132 people, according to Palestinian security sources. There have also been discussions within Israel of a potential return to fighting in Gaza, with some pushing for military occupation and forced displacement of Palestinians.
Overall, the ceasefire agreement and upcoming releases of captives and bodies mark a significant development in the ongoing conflict in Gaza, with hopes for progress in negotiations towards a more permanent resolution.
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