Hamas releases five Israeli hostages in latest exchange as tensions rise

Hamas has released five of six Israeli hostages as part of a recent exchange. The hostages include three men taken during the Nova music festival and two others abducted in previous years. They were handed over to the Red Cross in Gaza. Tensions remain high following a mix-up involving the remains of an Israeli mother, which Hamas initially misidentified. This incident has complicated ongoing negotiations for a second phase of the ceasefire, which would involve more hostages being released. In exchange for the hostages, over 600 Palestinian prisoners will be freed by Israel. Hamas has stated it will not release remaining captives without a lasting ceasefire and full Israeli withdrawal.