Israel Claims Deaths Of Eight Hostages In Ceasefire

Israel has reported that, out of the 26 individuals who were remained in captivity, 8 of them have tragically died, even though they were supposed to be released during the first phase of the Gaza ceasefire agreement. 

According to Israel's government spokesperson, David Menser, the information provided by the Palestinian armed group, Hamas, indicates that these 8 hostages have unfortunately passed away. Israel has already informed the families and relatives of the deceased individuals that Hamas is responsible for their deaths, as reported by the BBC. 

Since the ceasefire began on January 19, Hamas has released a total of seven women in exchange for more than 290 Palestinian prisoners who had been held in Israeli jails for various charges. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu mentioned that, this week, Hamas is expected to release 6 more prisoners as part of the ongoing ceasefire process. 

Israel has made an estimation that out of the 87 captives, 34 of them have most likely to be dead. In the first phase of the ceasefire agreement, Hamas had promised to release 33 of the hostages.