In a new development, Israel has agreed to release 620 Palestinian prisoners and detainees in exchange for the final four bodies of hostages, as part of a deal brokered by Egypt.
This move comes days after Israel failed to release the prisoners, leading to rising tensions and concerns over the fragile ceasefire between Hamas and Israel.
The initial delay in the release of the 620 detainees, which was set to occur last Saturday, had caused frustration on both sides.
Israel had postponed the release in protest of what it described as cruel treatment of hostages during their return and demanded assurances that future hostage exchanges would be carried out without “humiliating ceremonies.”
Meanwhile, advocates for Palestinian detainees expressed concern about Israel’s treatment of those in detention, highlighting that many prisoners have died in Israeli custody since the conflict began.
The exchange agreement, facilitated by Egyptian mediators, involves the return of four bodies of Israeli hostages held in Gaza, which will complete the first phase of the ceasefire deal that began last month.
READ ALSO: One-Third of Elon Musk’s DOGE Staff Resign Over Government Efficiency Changes
Among the 620 Palestinian detainees, there are 23 children and one woman, adding to the complexity of the ongoing negotiations.
Hamas had earlier released six Israeli hostages in ceremonies last Saturday, fulfilling part of the original agreement.
However, the delay in the prisoner release prompted accusations from Hamas that Israel had violated the ceasefire, raising concerns about the future of the truce.
At present, Hamas continues to hold 63 hostages in Gaza, some of whom are believed to be dead, including soldier Hadar Goldin, who has been held since 2014.
The fragile ceasefire remains intact for now, but ongoing tensions and delays highlight the challenges of achieving long-term peace in the region.
