Hamas Plans Hostage Body Exchange for Hundreds of Palestinian Prisoners

Hamas has agreed to return the bodies of four Israeli hostages in exchange for the release of over 600 Palestinian prisoners, marking a critical step in the ongoing ceasefire negotiations between the two sides. The exchange is set to occur shortly before the first phase of the ceasefire expires, amid accusations from Israel regarding the treatment of hostages during previous releases. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office has stated that the release of Palestinian prisoners will be conditioned on the assurance of the safety of more Israeli hostages. Tensions have escalated as Hamas claims the delay in prisoner releases constitutes a violation of the ceasefire agreement. U.S. special envoy Steve Witkoff has confirmed that talks for a second phase of the ceasefire are on track, with negotiations potentially taking place in Qatar or Egypt. The situation remains delicate, with both sides facing pressure to adhere to the terms of the ceasefire while managing public sentiment and political implications.