Hamas has announced the release of six living Israeli hostages on Saturday, along with the bodies of four others on Thursday. This unexpected move is believed to be linked to Israel allowing mobile homes and construction equipment into Gaza, which has been severely affected by the conflict.
The release of the six hostages marks the completion of the first phase of the ceasefire agreement between the two sides. However, negotiations for the second phase, which involves the release of dozens more hostages in exchange for a lasting ceasefire and Israeli withdrawal, are yet to take place.
Hamas leader Khalil al-Hayya confirmed the inclusion of the 'Bibas family' in the handover of the bodies. The family, consisting of Shiri Bibas and her two young sons, Ariel and Kfir, has become a symbol of the hostages' plight. While Israel has not officially confirmed their deaths, Hamas claims they were killed in an Israeli airstrike early in the conflict.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has agreed to allow the entry of mobile homes and construction equipment into Gaza to expedite the release of the hostages. This decision comes after Hamas threatened to delay releases due to alleged violations of the truce.
The ceasefire, which began in mid-January, has brought temporary relief to the region, allowing aid to flow into Gaza and facilitating the return of displaced Palestinians to their homes. However, significant challenges lie ahead, with Israel aiming to weaken Hamas' military and governing capabilities in Gaza.
Despite the progress made, there are concerns about the potential resumption of hostilities as the current phase of the ceasefire is set to end in March. Efforts to negotiate the release of remaining hostages and establish a lasting peace continue amidst complex geopolitical dynamics.
For more updates on the Israel-Hamas conflict, visit AP's war coverage.
