The office of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has recently announced that they have received a list naming hostages to be released on Thursday. This development is seen as a significant move in the ongoing ceasefire negotiations.

Exchange Deal Details: A Step Towards Peace

As part of an exchange agreement, Israel will release 628 Palestinians on Saturday, reciprocating with the return of six living hostages and four deceased individuals. Hamas has committed to releasing the remains of the Bibas family—two young boys and their mother—and Oded Lifshitz, who perished in a previous Israeli airstrike.

Hamas's Commitment to Ceasefire Talks

This decision by Hamas to increase the number of captives released is in response to mediation efforts urging them to show commitment to the ceasefire talks. These releases are part of the final group of living hostages being freed during this initial phase, exchanged for many Palestinians detained by Israel.

Anticipated Releases Include Hisham Al-Sayed and Avera Mengistu

Among those expected to be released are individuals like Hisham Al-Sayed and Avera Mengistu, who were captured in 2014 and 2015 respectively. Reports also mention the release of Eliya Cohen, Tal Shoham, Omer Shem Tov, and Omer Wenkert as confirmed by the Hostages and Missing Families Forum.

Conclusion of Phase One Ceasefire; Phase Two Awaits

As the first phase of the ceasefire nears its end, Hamas has promised to release all deceased captives in their custody. They have also expressed readiness for a consolidated operation to release individuals scheduled for release in the second phase.

The upcoming phase is expected to pave the way towards lasting peace, with Israel's full withdrawal from Gaza and the release of all detainees held by Hamas being key objectives. Although planned talks are yet to commence, these developments mark crucial progress toward resolving the ongoing conflict.

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