Hamas Returns Bodies of Four Israeli Hostages as Part of Ceasefire Agreement

The exchange marks the conclusion of the first phase of the Gaza ceasefire, with Israel also set to release over 600 Palestinian prisoners.

Hamas has confirmed it will return the bodies of four Israeli hostages, concluding the first phase of the ceasefire deal brokered on January 19, 2025.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office stated the bodies will be handed over without public ceremonies, following criticism of previous displays by Hamas.
The exchange includes the release of over 600 Palestinian prisoners by Israel, as part of the negotiated agreement.
The Bibas family, whose tragic story became emblematic of the October 7, 2023, attacks, was laid to rest in a widely attended funeral earlier this week.
Discussions for a potential second phase of the ceasefire agreement have not yet commenced, as both sides navigate the aftermath of the 16-month conflict.