Overview

• Hamas has handed over the bodies of four Israeli hostages to the Red Cross, marking the final exchange in the first phase of the ceasefire agreement with Israel.
• The exchange includes Israel's release of over 600 Palestinian prisoners, which had been delayed due to disputes over Hamas' public ceremonies during prior exchanges.
• The bodies were transferred without public ceremonies, following international criticism and Israeli protests over previous staged events.
• The current six-week ceasefire phase, brokered last month, is set to end on March 2, with no confirmation yet on whether it will be extended or a second phase negotiated.
• Egyptian officials facilitated the handover at the southern border, ensuring simultaneous exchanges between the parties.