Hamas returns Israeli hostages' bodies for Palestinian prisoners

Hamas returned the bodies of four Israeli hostages to the Red Cross on Thursday, in exchange for hundreds of Palestinian prisoners. This exchange occurred as the first phase of a ceasefire nears its end, with ongoing negotiations between both sides. Israel confirmed the handover of the hostages' bodies and began the identification process. In return, over 600 Palestinian prisoners were released, with many families gathering to welcome them home. The ceasefire, brokered by the US, Egypt, and Qatar, is set to expire this weekend. Humanitarian conditions in Gaza continue to deteriorate, with significant casualties and displacement reported.