TELAVIV: Israel confirmed eight of the remaining hostages, slated for release by Hamas in a ceasefire deal, are dead. Government spokesperson David Mencer revealed the news during a briefing on Monday.
Out of 33 hostages listed for release, 25 are alive. Seven were freed earlier, said Mencer. Israel received this information from Hamas, which sent the names of the hostages. According to Mencer, Hamas was responsible for the deaths, although the group provided no explanation.
The ceasefire began on January 19, following extensive Israeli military operations. It includes an agreement to release hostages taken during October 7’s attacks. Families of hostages have been contacted by Israeli authorities, stated the Hostage and Missing Families Forum.
Of the 26 remaining captives in phase one, 21 are men, three women, and two children, aged two to 86. Israeli officials and the forum confirmed these details. Meanwhile, Israel will release nearly 2,000 Palestinian prisoners as part of the deal.
This temporary truce has paused violence, bringing some relief to Gaza. Months of intense airstrikes left much of northern Gaza in ruins. Thousands of displaced residents have started returning home, facing widespread devastation and uncertainty.
Israeli authorities and international monitors oversee the process to ensure the hostages’ safe return. Further developments in the ceasefire and prisoner exchange will shape next steps for all involved.
