Eight hostages, expected to be released by Hamas as part of the Gaza ceasefire agreement, have been confirmed dead, Government Spokesman David Mencer said during a press briefing on Monday.
Since the ceasefire began on January 19, Hamas has released seven women hostages in exchange for over 290 Palestinian prisoners held in Israeli jails, according to the BBC. Three additional hostages, including civilian Arbel Yehud and soldier Agam Berger, will be released on Thursday, with another three expected on Saturday.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office continues negotiations to secure the release of the remaining 87 hostages, including 34 presumed dead.
The Qatar-brokered ceasefire ended Israel’s 15-month-long war in Gaza, which has killed over 47,000 Palestinians and caused widespread destruction.
Negotiations for the second phase of the ceasefire are slated to begin on February 4. This phase is expected to focus on the release of the remaining hostages, the withdrawal of Israeli troops, and efforts toward lasting peace.
The final phase will focus on Gaza’s reconstruction and the return of any remaining bodies.