Negotiations for second phase of Gaza ceasefire set to begin
Negotiations for the second phase of the Gaza ceasefire are set to begin soon, after delays. This phase aims to secure the release of remaining hostages and the complete withdrawal of Israeli soldiers from Gaza. Since the ceasefire started on January 19, 25 hostages have been released, with six more expected soon. Over 730 Palestinian prisoners have also been freed, but more than 70 hostages are still believed to be in Gaza. The second phase will involve complex negotiations, including the release of 62 remaining hostages in exchange for more Palestinian prisoners. Both sides have expressed concerns, with Israel demanding the elimination of Hamas's military capabilities before a full withdrawal.