Hamas and Israel have reached an agreement for the release of Palestinian prisoners by Israel and the handover of the bodies of four Israeli captives by Hamas. The exchange is expected to take place on Thursday, overseen by Egypt. Hamas accused Israel of delaying the release of 620 Palestinian prisoners, which was initially scheduled for last week. Israel cited concerns over public gatherings during the release of Israeli captives as the reason for the delay. This agreement aims to fulfill the obligations of both sides under the first phase of the ceasefire, where Hamas returns 33 captives, including eight bodies, in exchange for nearly 2,000 Palestinian prisoners. Talks for the second phase of a Gaza ceasefire deal remain ongoing, with negotiations expected to resume in Doha or Cairo. The second phase aims to secure the release of all remaining captives held by Hamas and negotiate an end to the war. There are indications that Israel may seek an extension of the first phase of the deal rather than immediately engaging in negotiations for the second phase. The withdrawal of Israeli forces from the Philadelphi Corridor, scheduled for next Saturday, will test the strength of the agreement.
Hamas and Israel Agree to Prisoner Release and Body Exchange; Ceasefire Talks Continue
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