Hamas returns remains of four Israeli hostages including two children in ceasefire deal

Hamas has handed over the remains of four Israeli hostages, including two children, as part of a ceasefire agreement. The Israeli military is verifying the identities of the deceased, who include members of the Bibas family and peace activist Oded Lifschitz. In exchange, Israel will release hundreds of Palestinian prisoners. Hamas has also pledged to release six living hostages ahead of schedule, aiming to strengthen negotiations for a lasting truce. Many hostages, both alive and deceased, remain in Gaza. This handover marks the first return of deceased hostages during the ongoing ceasefire. Negotiations for a more permanent agreement continue, with mediation from Egypt, Qatar, and the U.S.