Israel and Hamas officials have reached an agreement to exchange the bodies of deceased hostages for the release of hundreds of Palestinian prisoners, ensuring the continuity of their fragile ceasefire for the upcoming days.
The release of 600 Palestinian prisoners was initially delayed by Israel to protest the alleged mistreatment of hostages by Hamas during the release process. This delay was considered a breach of the ceasefire by Hamas, jeopardizing the agreement's stability as the first phase's deadline approached.
Agreement Resolution in Cairo
However, late Tuesday, a delegation led by Khalil al-Hayya from Hamas visited Cairo and successfully resolved the deadlock. This breakthrough paved the way for the return of additional deceased hostages' bodies and the scheduled release of more prisoners under the ceasefire terms.
The agreement stipulates the simultaneous release of the previously designated prisoners alongside the transfer of Israeli hostages' bodies. An Israeli official confirmed the forthcoming repatriation of the bodies without divulging specific details.
Upcoming Exchange and Its Significance
The anticipated exchange is expected to occur promptly, potentially as early as Wednesday. Unlike previous exchanges marked by public ceremonies, this transfer will be discreet, with the Israeli bodies handed over to Egyptian authorities privately.
Hamas's previous public ceremonies involving hostages, including the forced parading and waving of Israelis, were criticized by Israel, the Red Cross, and U.N. officials for their humiliating nature. This criticism led to the recent postponement of the prisoner release.
The completion of the initial ceasefire phase obligations by both parties includes Hamas returning 33 hostages, including eight bodies, in exchange for close to 2,000 Palestinian prisoners. This milestone sets the stage for potential negotiations on the ceasefire's second phase and the eventual cessation of hostilities.
Anticipated Phase 2 Negotiations
The successful resolution of the current agreement also sets the groundwork for the expected visit of the White House's Mideast envoy, Steve Witkoff, to the region. Witkoff aims to facilitate discussions on the second phase, focusing on the release of all remaining hostages held by Hamas and the initiation of peace talks. While the Phase 2 negotiations were originally slated to commence weeks ago, delays have hindered progress.
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