Hamas Reveals Names of Four Hostages to Be Released Under Ceasefire Agreement

TDT | Manama

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The militant group Hamas announced on Friday the names of four hostages it plans to release on Saturday as part of a ceasefire agreement with Israel. The truce, which has temporarily paused the devastating war in Gaza, has brought hope for further de-escalation after more than six weeks of intense conflict.

Israel has yet to confirm the names of the hostages, who are set to be freed in exchange for 180 Palestinian prisoners currently held by Israel. The deal is part of the first phase of a broader ceasefire arrangement, which includes the gradual release of a total of 33 hostages in exchange for hundreds of Palestinian prisoners. Additionally, the agreement allows for increased humanitarian aid to enter Gaza.

Families of Hostages Appeal for Action

On the same day, relatives of the remaining hostages still in Hamas’ custody urged Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to intensify efforts for their release. They also called on U.S. President Donald Trump to continue pressuring Hamas for the safe return of the captives.

Israel estimates that approximately one-third to half of the more than 90 hostages still believed to be in Gaza have died. Hamas has yet to provide clear numbers or confirm the identities of those who have died. However, the group is expected to release further information about the remaining 26 hostages slated for release in the coming weeks under the ceasefire terms.

Civilians Face an Uncertain Future in Gaza

While the ceasefire has provided temporary relief, civilians in Gaza face significant challenges. Residents of the central and southern regions are anxiously waiting to return to the northern part of the territory, which has been left in ruins after weeks of bombardment.

The war has had a devastating human cost. Gaza’s health ministry reports that more than 47,000 Palestinians have been killed since the conflict began, although the figures do not distinguish between civilians and combatants. The violence erupted following a deadly Hamas attack on Israel on October 7, 2023, which resulted in the deaths of approximately 1,200 people.

Steps Toward De-escalation

The ceasefire agreement marks a fragile step toward de-escalation in a region long plagued by conflict. The gradual release of hostages and prisoners, along with increased humanitarian aid, could pave the way for further negotiations. However, the deep scars of the war and the uncertainty surrounding the fate of many hostages underscore the immense challenges that remain.

As the world watches, the hope for a lasting peace remains tempered by the complex realities on the ground.