Hostage Release Continues: Two Bodies of Deceased Hostages Expected to be Transferred to Egypt

Phase 1 of the hostage deal has been progressing, although recently there have been some pauses due to Hamas’ failure to follow through with some aspects of the arrangement such as continuing to hold horrific ceremonies when releasing hostages and bodies and initially returning the body of a Gazan woman instead of Shiri Bibas, of blessed memory.

Yesterday (Monday), sources from Palestinian terrorist organizations involved in the negotiations told the Al-Sharq Al-Awsat newspaper that there is progress towards getting things back on track.

According to Israeli reports, a compromise is forming in which two deceased hostages will be transferred to Egypt within the next 24 hours, after which 301 terrorists will be released—half of the number that Hamas initially demanded. After the release of the two deceased, the transfer of two more is expected; upon their return, the second half of the terrorists will be released.

Expecting the Release of All Hostages | Photo: Yonatan Sindeli/Flash90

Hamas Under Pressure

Hamas’s conduct in recent days appears to differ from its previous approach. It seems that the terrorist organization is showing more flexibility in its phases and releases of hostages, which may indicate pressure being applied to it, particularly in light of the stance of the U.S. administration.
Destruction in Northern Gaza | Photo: Khalil Kahlout/Flash90

“We are prepared for the release of the living hostages in the second phase of the agreement to occur in one batch rather than in several phases,” said Hamas spokesman Hazem Qassem in an interview with a Qatari channel yesterday, in an effort to advance the deal. This marks a significant shift in Hamas’s tactics, which had previously preferred to release hostages in stages to maximize political gains.

IDF Ready to Continue Fighting

Givati Brigade Equipment Over a few months ago in Gaza | Photo: IDF Spokesperson

Meanwhile, the IDF has completed preparations for the renewal of fighting. Forces are deployed along the border of the Gaza Strip, and those familiar with the details indicate that the likelihood of renewed combat is increasing. A political source clarified: “If the U.S. administration does not surprise us with a bold move, we will return to fighting. It’s a complex web of considerations, and therefore we will explore interim solutions.”