An Israeli security official has reported that Hamas has transferred four bodies to the Red Cross. This development comes as Israel prepares to release hundreds of Palestinian prisoners in the near future. The release of these bodies marks the final phase of the hostage and prisoner exchange under the ceasefire agreement between Hamas and Israel, which was established last month.
As part of the agreement, Israel is expected to release the prisoners following the positive identification of the deceased hostages. The bodies, which were handed over by Hamas, are currently being examined for identification purposes by a team of experts from the National Center for Forensic Medicine at the Kerem Shalom border crossing.
It is worth noting that a previous release by Hamas resulted in a mix-up, where one of the bodies was mistakenly identified. This incident caused a delay in the prisoner release process until the identities of the hostages were confirmed.
The recent transfer of bodies by Hamas includes individuals such as Tsachi Idan, Itzhak Elgarat, Ohad Yahalomi, and Shlomo Mantzur. The Israeli government has indicated that more than half of the captives held by Hamas are presumed dead, with one individual, Hadar Goldin, having been held since before October 7, 2023.
Furthermore, the prisoner release is expected to involve a significant number of detainees, including individuals who have been held without charge, as well as those serving life sentences. Among the prisoners set to be released is Nael Barghouti, the longest-serving Palestinian political prisoner, who has faced multiple arrests and incarcerations over the years.
The exchange of hostages and prisoners between Hamas and Israel has been a complex and sensitive process, with both parties navigating challenges and negotiations to fulfill the terms of the ceasefire agreement. The upcoming release of prisoners signifies a significant step towards reconciliation and peace efforts in the region.
