Gaza ceasefire talks resume after prisoner exchange agreement

Israel has agreed to release Palestinian prisoners in exchange for the bodies of four Israeli hostages, reviving ceasefire talks. Hamas confirmed the deal, which was negotiated with Egyptian help. U.S. officials stated that discussions for a second phase of the ceasefire are ongoing. The first phase of the ceasefire is set to end on Saturday. Hamas has expressed readiness to release all remaining hostages in the next phase. Both sides have accused each other of ceasefire violations, but the truce has largely held since January 19. Israel continues military operations in the West Bank and has conducted air strikes in southern Syria. The conflict has resulted in significant casualties on both sides, with over 1,200 Israelis and more than 48,000 Palestinians reported dead since the war began.