Hamas suggests possible release of six Israeli hostages on Feb. 22

A spokesperson for Hamas has stated that it is “very likely” six living hostages could be released on Saturday, February 22.

However, as the Israeli media notes, the spokesperson emphasized that the decision “depends on the price Israel will pay", per Caliber.Az.

The militant group insists that Israel must “agree to move to the second phase” of the deal, which includes obligations to “respect the humanitarian protocol” by permitting the importation of caravans and heavy engineering equipment into Gaza.

At this stage, Israel’s response to these conditions remains unclear. The Israeli politico-military cabinet, which convened on the evening of February 17 to discuss the situation, has not yet decided to proceed to the second phase, instead prioritizing the completion of the first phase. The negotiating team engaged in discussions in Egypt and Qatar has not received a clear mandate or plan for the second phase.

Additionally, it has been reported that Hamas is preparing to return the bodies of several Israeli hostages on Thursday, February 20. Israeli media indicate that four or five bodies will be handed over.

The identities of the deceased have not yet been disclosed, but Hamas is expected to provide a list to Israel on the morning of February 20. The remains will then undergo an identification process at the Abu Kabir Institute of Forensic Medicine in Tel Aviv before confirmation is given to the families.

Despite these developments, Hamas has not ruled out the possibility of further hostage releases, stating that some hostages remain alive.

Currently, Hamas is holding 73 hostages —both living and deceased — in Gaza. The first phase of the exchange deal, which began on January 19, involves the release of 33 hostages, 25 of whom are confirmed to be alive. Only one deceased hostage has been publicly identified — Shlomo Manzur. Six groups of hostages have been released so far.

On January 15, Israel and Hamas reached a ceasefire and hostage exchange agreement with mediation. Under the 42-day first phase of the deal, Hamas is to release 33 hostages taken on October 7, 2023, while Israel withdraws some forces from Gaza and releases nearly 2,000 Palestinian prisoners. Eight of the 33 hostages in the first phase are presumed dead, and their bodies will be returned to Israel.

The Hamas attack on Israel on October 7, 2023, resulted in approximately 1,200 deaths and around 250 hostages taken. In response, Israel launched a military operation in the Gaza Strip. According to the Hamas-run Gaza Health Ministry, more than 45,000 residents have been killed since the start of Israel’s campaign.

By Tamilla Hasanova