Hamas and Israel have agreed to exchange six hostages,bodies held in Gaza

Hamas and Israel have agreed to exchange six hostages,bodies held in Gaza
Hamas and Israel have agreed to the release of six living hostages and the return of four bodies, including those of two young boys, seen as national symbols in Israel. The hostages, including Shiri Bibas and her children, were abducted during Hamas’s attack on October 7, 2023. Despite Hamas's earlier claim that they had died in an Israeli airstrike, the Bibas family remains in turmoil, awaiting confirmation. The deal also includes the return of four bodies on Thursday and four more next week, according to Israeli officials. The six living hostages set for release on February 22 include Eliya Cohen, Tal Shoham, and others. While their families are cautiously hopeful, they remain uncertain until definitive confirmation is received. This marks the first time Hamas will return bodies to Israel since the war began. The ongoing truce between both sides has held, despite accusations of violations. Meanwhile, Israel is pushing for the complete demilitarization of Gaza, with plans for negotiations on the second phase of the truce. Tensions remain high as Israel seeks an end to Hamas's presence in Gaza, while Qatar and other nations emphasize the importance of Palestinian self-determination.