Hamas has reached an agreement with Egyptian mediators for the release of Palestinian prisoners and the handover of four bodies of Israeli captives. The deal also includes the release of women and children detained in Gaza after 7 October. This comes after Israel delayed prisoner releases, despite Hamas returning six Israeli captives on 22 February, a move Hamas condemned as a violation of the ceasefire.  

The first phase of the truce, set to conclude on 1 March, involved the exchange of 33 Israeli captives (including eight bodies) for 1,900 Palestinian prisoners. However, negotiations for the second phase, which were expected weeks ago, have yet to begin. This phase aims to secure a permanent end to Israel’s military campaign, the withdrawal of its forces from Gaza, and the release of around 60 remaining captives held by Hamas.  

The third phase of the agreement will focus on the reconstruction of Gaza, which has suffered extensive damage from Israeli bombings. According to UN satellite data, over 170,000 buildings in Gaza have been damaged or destroyed since the start of the conflict, leaving much of the territory in ruins.  

The delayed implementation of the agreement and ongoing tensions highlight the fragility of the ceasefire. While Hamas insists on Israel’s compliance with the terms, the situation remains precarious, with the potential to reignite hostilities if the deal is not upheld.