Hamas to Release Four Israeli Hostages on Saturday Under Ceasefire Agreement
The planned release follows the initial phase of a 42-day truce, involving hostage exchanges and humanitarian aid to Gaza.
- Hamas has announced it will release four Israeli hostages on Saturday, with their names to be disclosed on Friday, as part of a ceasefire agreement with Israel.
- This marks the second planned release of hostages since the truce began, with 33 hostages and approximately 1,900 Palestinian prisoners set for exchange over 42 days.
- The ceasefire includes provisions for the return of displaced Palestinians to northern Gaza as Israeli forces withdraw from certain areas under international oversight.
- The agreement follows months of devastating conflict triggered by Hamas' attack on Israel in October 2023, which resulted in over 1,200 Israeli deaths and the abduction of 251 hostages.
- Humanitarian aid to Gaza is being increased during the truce, while concerns remain over Hamas' continued military presence in the region.