US reports progress in Israel-Hamas ceasefire negotiations

The U.S. reported progress in talks for a second phase of the Gaza ceasefire, with Israeli representatives heading to negotiations. Hamas claimed an agreement to release Palestinian prisoners in exchange for the bodies of Israeli hostages. The current ceasefire, which began on January 19, has seen 25 hostages returned and over 1,100 Palestinian prisoners released. However, negotiations for the next phase have faced delays, with both sides accusing each other of violating the truce. In Israel, thousands mourned the deaths of hostages Shiri Bibas and her sons, highlighting the emotional toll of the conflict. Meanwhile, Israel has intensified military operations in the West Bank and conducted air strikes in southern Syria.