Israel and Hamas agree on hostage and prisoner exchange

Israel and Hamas have reached an agreement for the release of the remains of four Israeli hostages in exchange for hundreds of Palestinian prisoners. This deal resolves a recent impasse and follows the first phase of a cease-fire. Hamas had previously agreed to release 25 Israeli hostages and the bodies of eight others for over 1,500 Palestinian prisoners. However, Israel delayed the release of these prisoners, seeking assurances regarding future exchanges. The new agreement is set to take place on Wednesday night or Thursday. Around 27 hostages and the remains of more than 30 others remain in Gaza, with further negotiations for a second phase of the cease-fire still unclear.