Israel, Hamas Reach Deal On Hostage Bodies, Prisoner Exchange

Tel Aviv, February 26 (TNA) Israel and Hamas have agreed to exchange the bodies of four hostages in return for the release of hundreds of Palestinian prisoners. This signals that the fragile Gaza ceasefire remains intact for now.

Israel had delayed the release of 620 Palestinian prisoners, including 23 children and one woman, since Saturday, protesting Hamas’ treatment of hostages and demanding humane transfers. On Saturday, Hamas freed six Israeli hostages, concluding the first phase of the ceasefire deal. The latest agreement aims to move the stalled exchange process forward.