Hamas to release six Israeli hostages on Saturday as ceasefire phase concludes

Hamas announced it will release six living Israeli hostages on Saturday. This marks the final release of hostages under the first phase of the ceasefire in Gaza. Previously, three hostages were expected to be freed on the same day. Negotiations for a second phase, involving more hostages and a lasting ceasefire, are still pending. The releases have occurred in exchange for hundreds of Palestinian prisoners held by Israel.