Hamas transferred the bodies of four slain hostages to the Red Cross on Thursday, according to the sources. An Israeli security official confirmed the transfer.

Israel Prepares Prisoner Release

A Hamas official stated, “The four bodies were handed over a short while ago, and we are waiting for the release of Palestinian prisoners.” Shortly after, Israel began releasing hundreds of Palestinian prisoners as part of the ongoing ceasefire agreement.

Crowds Welcome Released Prisoners

A bus carrying Palestinian prisoners reached Ramallah, where a cheering crowd welcomed them. Meanwhile, a Red Cross convoy transported dozens of released prisoners from Israel’s Ofer prison.

Ceasefire Deadline Approaches

This exchange happened just days before the first phase of the ceasefire is set to expire this weekend. The six-week agreement has faced challenges, with Israel delaying the release of 600 Palestinian prisoners since Saturday. Israel protested the harsh treatment of hostages during their release by Hamas, calling the process “humiliating.”

Hamas Criticizes Delays

Hamas condemned the delay, calling it a “serious violation” of the ceasefire. The group stated that negotiations for a second phase could not proceed until all prisoners were freed.

No Public Ceremony for Latest Handover

Earlier, a Hamas official announced that the group would not hold a public event while transferring the next set of hostage bodies. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office confirmed the bodies would be released without a public display, unlike previous highly publicized events by Hamas.

Mourning in Israel

On Wednesday, thousands gathered in Israel to mourn a mother and her two young sons, who were killed in captivity in Gaza. Their funeral took place amid continued tensions over the hostage-prisoner exchanges.