Hamas and Israel ready for second phase ceasefire talks

Hamas announced it is ready to start talks for the second phase of a ceasefire after exchanging several hundred Palestinian prisoners for the bodies of four Israeli hostages. This marks the end of the first phase of the ceasefire that began on January 19. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has sent negotiators to Cairo to continue discussions. Israeli Energy Minister Eli Cohen emphasized that returning the remaining hostages is a priority, but no agreement will be made if Hamas remains intact in Gaza. The final exchange involved 620 Palestinians released from Israeli jails, including those serving life sentences. The bodies of the four hostages were confirmed by Israeli President Isaac Herzog, who noted the importance of their burial in Israel.