Days after Israel postponed the release of hundreds of Palestinian prisoners and detainees in exchange for six hostages held in Gaza, a new agreement has been reached, according to an Israeli source and Hamas, highlighting the fragility of the ceasefire.
The Egyptian-brokered deal involves the exchange of the final four bodies of hostages set to be released in the first phase of the ceasefire for 620 Palestinian prisoners and detainees, including 23 children and one woman, who were initially scheduled for release last Saturday. Israel had delayed their release, citing concerns over the treatment of hostages during their handover by Hamas and demanding assurances that future releases would avoid “humiliating ceremonies.”
Advocates for Palestinian prisoners have raised concerns about the delay and Israel’s treatment of detainees. The Palestinian Prisoner’s Society reports that 69 Palestinian prisoners have died in Israeli detention since the October 7, 2023, Hamas-led attack, with 38 of them detained in Gaza.
Hamas released six Israeli hostages on Saturday in public and private ceremonies, marking the final return of living hostages in the first phase of the ceasefire. However, Hamas accused Israel of violating the truce by delaying the prisoner release, casting uncertainty over the ceasefire and stating that talks on a second phase cannot proceed until the prisoners are freed.
Hamas confirmed the new agreement through Egyptian mediators but did not specify the number of hostages and prisoners involved. An Egyptian official also confirmed the deal, according to a government statement.
Hamas and its allies still hold 63 hostages in Gaza, with at least 32 believed to be dead, including soldier Hadar Goldin, who has been held since 2014.
