Hamas, Israeli Occupation reach deal on captive remains exchange

"Israeli" Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office confirmed an agreement with mediators to recover the bodies of four "Israeli" captives held in Gaza.

A spokesperson for Netanyahu announced the deal but provided no further details. Meanwhile, Hamas stated that "the timing of the exchange of Israeli remains and Palestinian prisoners will be announced in due course."

Two Palestinian sources told Agence France-Presse (AFP) that Hamas would return the bodies on Thursday in exchange for the Israeli Occupation releasing over 600 Palestinian political prisoners. One source said mediators informed Hamas that the exchange would begin that day, with resistance factions handing over the remains while "Israel" frees 625 Palestinian detainees.

Al-Nasser Salah al-Deen Brigades announced it would return one "Israeli" captive’s body on Thursday as part of Hamas’s broader efforts. A spokesperson, known as Abu Ataya, confirmed the group’s decision to release the remains of Ohad Yahalomi and urged mediators to ensure "Israel" abides by the agreement.

“The Palestinian factions’ commitment to this deal reflects their dedication to their obligations and to the welfare of our people and prisoners,” Abu Ataya said.

Hamas indicated that the transfer will take place discreetly through the Karam Abu Salem crossing into Egypt, avoiding official ceremonies to prevent Israeli Occupation interference.

Last week, the Israeli Occupation delayed a scheduled prisoner release, accusing Hamas of staging "humiliating spectacles" of "Israeli" captives during previous handovers.