Hamas to Deliver Bodies of 4 Israeli Captives Tomorrow
16
World
February 26, 2025 15:07
gaza - Hamas announces the delivery of the bodies of 4 Israeli captives in Gaza tomorrow, simultaneous with postponed release of Palestinian prisoners.
Hamas Announces Delivery of Israeli Captives' Bodies
Hamas spokesman Hazem Qasem stated that 4 Israeli captives' bodies will be handed over tomorrow, along with the delayed release of Palestinian prisoners.
Egyptian and Qatari mediators have provided assurances for the process, ensuring a new mechanism to fulfill Israel's commitments. Details of the new mechanism were not disclosed.
Another Hamas spokesman, Abdul Latif al-Kanu, confirmed that Israel will release Palestinian prisoners during the delivery of Israeli captives' bodies. The process will be carried out within a new mechanism to hold Israel accountable for its promises.
In a recent statement, Kanu emphasized Egypt's mediation guarantees and Hamas' commitment to the agreement's implementation.
Israeli Suspension of Palestinian Prisoners' Release
Israel had suspended the release of Palestinian prisoners, pending security consultations led by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The decision was made due to alleged exploitation of Israeli captives for propaganda purposes.
While Hamas had freed Israeli captives, Israel's release of Palestinian prisoners was contingent on the outcomes of security consultations.
Hamas-Israel Ceasefire and Prisoner Exchange Agreement
The ceasefire and prisoner exchange agreement between Hamas and Israel came into effect on January 19th. The agreement facilitated the opening of the Netzarim Corridor for Palestinian transit and the withdrawal of Israeli forces on February 9th.
The Rafah Border Crossing between Gaza and Egypt was opened for the evacuation of patients and wounded individuals after 8 months of Israeli occupation on February 1st.
During the initial six rounds of prisoner exchanges, 1135 Palestinian prisoners and 19 Israelis were released from Israeli custody, marking progress in the agreement's implementation.