Hamas hands over bodies of four “Israeli” captives to Red Cross

Qassam Brigades, the military wing of Hamas handed over bodies of four "Israeli" captives to the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC).  

The four deceased captives, identified as Tsahi Idan, Itzik Al-Jarit, Ohad Yahalomi, and Shlomi Mansour, were captured during the ongoing aggression that has claimed the lives of nearly 48,348 people, with a majority of the casualties being women and children.

Hamas spokesperson Hazem Qassem confirmed earlier this week that the exchange would occur “in parallel with “Israel’s” release of the delayed batch of Palestinian detainees, including women and children.”

This marks the completion of the first phase of the Gaza ceasefire and prisoner swap.

In exchange for the bodies, “Israel” has agreed to release a significant number of Palestinian detainees, fulfilling one of the key terms of the deal brokered by Egyptian mediators. The prisoner swap had initially been delayed due to concerns over compliance, but new guarantees were reportedly secured, ensuring both parties adhere to their commitments.

This latest development brings to a close the first phase of the exchange, which has already seen the release of 33 “Israeli” captives and 1,737 Palestinian detainees over the past six weeks. 

However, “Israel” has faced criticism for its refusal to release 620 Palestinian detainees in exchange for the four bodies of Israeli captives, citing concerns over the "degrading handover ceremonies."

As of now, the ceasefire remains in place, but uncertainty continues to loom over the future of peace efforts as both sides prepare for the next phase of negotiations.