After weeks of stalled negotiations, Israel and Hamas have reportedly reached a breakthrough in their prisoner swap deal. Egypt played a crucial role in brokering the agreement, which will see Palestinian prisoners released in exchange for Israeli hostages. Meanwhile, tensions continue to rise in the region as security concerns mount.

Israel-Hamas prisoner swap deal reached after intense talks

Israel and Hamas accused each other of violating the already fragile Gaza cease-fire deal after Israel delayed the release of hundreds of Palestinian prisoners who were supposed to be exchanged for hostages. Watch this report for more details!

Israel-Hamas War: Israel, Hamas blame each other for violation of Gaza truce

#Gravitas For the first time in over two decades, Israeli tanks have entered the West Bank, raising alarms about what comes next.

Israel sends tanks into West Bank for the first time since 2002

Israel has postponed the release of over 600 Palestinian prisoners, citing concerns over the "humiliating" nature of hostage handover ceremonies conducted by Hamas. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that the prisoner release would remain on hold until Hamas guarantees the cessation of such ceremonies and ensures the safe return of additional hostages.

Israel-Hamas War: Israel halts release of Palestinian prisoners

Israel-Hamas War: Israeli PM Netanyahu halts prisoner exchange with Hamas

Israel-Hamas War: 'Israel prepared to resume fighting in Gaza strip,' says Netanyahu

Israel-Hamas War: Israel refuses to release 608 Palestinians prisoners

Israel-Hamas ceasefire brought to another halt

Israel halts release of 608 Palestinian prisoners, citing ‘humiliating’ handovers of hostages by Hamas

Israel halts prisoner exchange with Hamas

Israel refuses to release 608 Palestinians

Israeli PM Netanyahu to hold security consultations on remaining captives. 22 February 2025 14:44 GMT. Watch in for more details!

Netanyahu to hold security consultations on remaining captives

Hamas on Saturday freed five Israeli hostages, among the last living captives to be released under the first phase of a fragile truce that is also expected to see Palestinian prisoners released.

Hamas frees 5 Israeli hostages in latest transfer under truce

#Gravitas Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has ordered an intensive military crackdown in the West Bank. This directive came just hours after three empty buses exploded near Tel Aviv which Israeli authorities suspect was a terrorist attack. Watch in for more details!

Bombs shatter uneasy peace in West Asia, Israel retaliates

US envoy to Ukraine Keith Kellogg called the talks with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky as "extensive and positive" as the two met on Thursday in Kyiv.&nbsp;
The Palestinian militant group Hamas admitted that the body of Israeli hostage Shiri Bibas had been burried in the rubble along with other human remains after an Israeli air strike hit the place.&nbsp;
<h2>Click on the headlines for more</h2>
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/extensive-and-productive-us-envoy-kellogg-praises-talks-with-courageous-leader-zelensky-8744537" rel="dofollow">'Extensive and productive': US envoy Kellogg praises talks with 'courageous leader' Zelensky</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/02/21/EdooFRhDHwJhfci6YAkw.png" alt=" Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky (L) greets US envoy Keith Kellogg at his offices in Kyiv on February 20, 2025, amid the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Photograph: (AFP) ">
US special envoy for Ukraine Keith Kellogg on Friday (Feb 21) called his talks with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky as "extensive and positive".&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/evil-violation-of-truce-amid-outrage-hamas-says-shiri-bibass-remains-mixed-in-rubble-of-israeli-strike-8743938" rel="dofollow">'Evil violation of truce': Amid outrage, Hamas says Shiri Bibas's remains 'mixed in rubble' of Israeli strike</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/02/21/aIWn4vrk5NIiqJrGbzq8.png" alt=" Posters of Shiri Bibas and her two young sons, Kfir and Ariel are plastered outside the Tel Aviv Museum of Art, now informally called the &quot;Hostages Square&quot;, on February 19, 2025 Photograph: (AFP) ">
After Israel claimed that a body returned by Hamas Thursday was not of Israeli hostage Shiri Bibas, the Palestinian militant group on Friday (Feb 21) said that the Israeli hostage's remains had been burried in the rubble alomg with other human remains after an Israeli air strike hit the place where she was being held captive.&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/deeply-concerning-indian-foreign-ministry-reacts-to-trumps-21m-funding-for-voter-turnout-in-india-claim-8743564" rel="dofollow">'Deeply concerning': Indian foreign ministry reacts to Trump's $21M funding for 'voter turnout in India' claim</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/02/14/VkwdGXZOop8Ei4yijeZX.png" alt=" PM Modi meets US President Donald Trump Photograph: (AFP) ">
Indian Foreign Ministry on Friday (Feb 21) said that the Trump administration's claim that $21 million USAID funding was allegedly allocated for 'voter turnout in India' was 'deeply concerning'.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/is-ukraines-zelensky-really-a-dictator-without-elections-trumps-claim-vs-the-reality-of-wartime-voting-8744345" rel="dofollow">Is Ukraine's Zelensky really a 'dictator without elections'? Trump&rsquo;s claim vs. the reality of wartime voting</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/02/21/spE7PfhNAc2afkZRzGIy.png" alt=" Under normal circumstances, Zelensky would have faced re-election in 2024. Photograph: (Reuters, Wion Web Team) ">
US President Donald Trump launched a scathing attack on Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Wednesday, calling him a &ldquo;modestly successful comedian&rdquo; and a &ldquo;dictator without elections.&rdquo;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/rednote-downloads-sees-91-per-cent-drop-as-tiktok-returns-to-us-stores-8744228" rel="dofollow">Rednote downloads drop by 91 per cent as TikTok returns to US stores</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/01/21/4IkwfgfESrO4fQqij0iA.jpg" alt=" Representative photo of a man holding a smartphone displaying the logo of Chinese social media platform Tiktok. Photograph: (AFP) ">
Weeks after US President Donald Trump granted an extension to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/tiktok" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">TikTok&nbsp;</a>to find a US buyer, the app has returned to US mobile stores. Meanwhile, the rival social media app Xiaohongshu has suffered a 91 per cent drop in downloads.&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-should-engage-in-mutual-beneficial-cooperation-eam-jaishankar-meets-his-chinese-counterpart-in-johannesberg-8743741" rel="dofollow">'We should engage in mutual beneficial cooperation': Jaishankar meets Chinese FM Wang Yi on sidelines of G20</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/02/21/Fv8whCOTL0c3aqmGg5Yf.png" alt=" Indian's External Affairs S Jaishankar met with his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi Photograph: (WION) ">
India's External Affairs minister S Jaishankar met with his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi on Friday (Feb 21) on the sidelines of the G20 Foreign Ministers' meet.&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/unacceptable-and-wrong-canadas-pm-hopeful-ruby-dhalla-slams-false-media-allegations-of-india-link-8744118" rel="dofollow">&lsquo;Unacceptable and wrong&rsquo;: Canada&rsquo;s PM hopeful Ruby Dhalla slams &lsquo;false&rsquo; media allegations of India link</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/01/28/q6iYGbxEgFlGojSaAInP.png" alt=" Ruby Dhalla Photograph: (Instagram/rubydhalla1) ">
Indo-Canadian politician Ruby Dhalla has strongly denied allegations suggesting she is linked to Indian authorities, calling them an attempt to &ldquo;discredit&rdquo; her leadership bid for the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/canada-detects-malicious-activity-by-china-targeting-liberal-partys-leadership-candidate-chrystia-freeland-8703062" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Liberal Party</a>.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/elon-musk-cpac-speech-chainsaw-for-bureaucracy-stunt-cringe-af-or-fire-internet-divided-8744709" rel="dofollow">Elon Musk&rsquo;s &lsquo;chainsaw for bureaucracy&rsquo; stunt: &lsquo;Cringe AF&rsquo; or &lsquo;fire&rsquo;? Internet divided</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/02/21/mhtg6y32Lvx1putk64ds.png" alt=" &ldquo;This is the chainsaw for bureaucracy,&rdquo; Musk declared, lifting the power tool over his head. Photograph: (X/elonmusk) ">
Elon Musk, the billionaire leading deep spending cuts in the US federal government, took to the stage at the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) on Thursday with an unusual prop&mdash;a chainsaw.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/pcb-upset-over-pakistans-name-missing-from-broadcasting-logo-during-ind-vs-ban-champions-trophy-2025-match-8744485" rel="dofollow">PCB upset over Pakistan&rsquo;s name missing from broadcasting logo during IND vs BAN Champions Trophy tie</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/02/21/sDUwzKUR0soEFbywIG9K.jpg" alt=" PCB upset over Pakistan&rsquo;s name missing from broadcasting logo during IND vs BAN Champions Trophy tie Photograph: (Others) ">
The PCB is upset over Pakistan&rsquo;s name missing from the logo during the live broadcast of the recently concluded India vs Bangladesh&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/champions-trophy" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Champions Trophy</a>&nbsp;game in Dubai. The absence of Pakistan&rsquo;s name in the CT branding forced the host board to write to the ICC seeking an explanation.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/pm-narendra-modi-applauds-vicky-kaushals-period-drama-8744685" rel="dofollow">'In dino to Chhaava ki dhoom machi hui hai': PM Narendra Modi applauds Vicky Kaushal's period drama</a>
<img src="https://img-cdn.thepublive.com/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/02/21/0fleQkgiBKSErS6gOybm.png" alt=" PM Narendra Modi applauds Vicky Kaushal's Chhaava Photograph: (X) ">
On Friday (Feb 21), Prime Minister Narendra Modi lauded Vicky Kaushal's recently released film Chhaava. The period drama is currently garnering a lot of appraise from all quarters, especially for its engaging storytelling and prolific performance from the lead cast.&nbsp;

World: Hamas admitted that the body of Israeli hostage Shiri Bibas had been mixed in the rubble along with other human remains after an Israeli air strike hit the place.

US envoy to Ukraine Keith Kellogg called the talks with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky as "extensive and positive" as the two met on Thursday in Kyiv. The Palestinian militant group Hamas admitted that the body of Israeli hostage Shiri Bibas had been burried in the rubble along with other human remains after an Israeli air strike hit the place. Click on the headlines for more 'Extensive and productive': US envoy Kellogg praises talks with 'courageous leader' Zelensky US special envoy for Ukraine Keith Kellogg on Friday (Feb 21) called his talks with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky as "extensive and positive". 'Evil violation of truce': Amid outrage, Hamas says Shiri Bibas's remains 'mixed in rubble' of Israeli strike After Israel claimed that a body returned by Hamas Thursday was not of Israeli hostage Shiri Bibas, the Palestinian militant group on Friday (Feb 21) said that the Israeli hostage's remains had been burried in the rubble alomg with other human remains after an Israeli air strike hit the place where she was being held captive. 'Deeply concerning': Indian foreign ministry reacts to Trump's $21M funding for 'voter turnout in India' claim Indian Foreign Ministry on Friday (Feb 21) said that the Trump administration's claim that $21 million USAID funding was allegedly allocated for 'voter turnout in India' was 'deeply concerning'. Is Ukraine's Zelensky really a 'dictator without elections'? Trump’s claim vs. the reality of wartime voting US President Donald Trump launched a scathing attack on Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Wednesday, calling him a “modestly successful comedian” and a “dictator without elections.” Rednote downloads drop by 91 per cent as TikTok returns to US stores Weeks after US President Donald Trump granted an extension to TikTok to find a US buyer, the app has returned to US mobile stores. Meanwhile, the rival social media app Xiaohongshu has suffered a 91 per cent drop in downloads. 'We should engage in mutual beneficial cooperation': Jaishankar meets Chinese FM Wang Yi on sidelines of G20 India's External Affairs minister S Jaishankar met with his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi on Friday (Feb 21) on the sidelines of the G20 Foreign Ministers' meet. ‘Unacceptable and wrong’: Canada’s PM hopeful Ruby Dhalla slams ‘false’ media allegations of India link Indo-Canadian politician Ruby Dhalla has strongly denied allegations suggesting she is linked to Indian authorities, calling them an attempt to “discredit” her leadership bid for the Liberal Party. Elon Musk’s ‘chainsaw for bureaucracy’ stunt: ‘Cringe AF’ or ‘fire’? Internet divided Elon Musk, the billionaire leading deep spending cuts in the US federal government, took to the stage at the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) on Thursday with an unusual prop—a chainsaw. PCB upset over Pakistan’s name missing from broadcasting logo during IND vs BAN Champions Trophy tie The PCB is upset over Pakistan’s name missing from the logo during the live broadcast of the recently concluded India vs Bangladesh Champions Trophy game in Dubai. The absence of Pakistan’s name in the CT branding forced the host board to write to the ICC seeking an explanation. 'In dino to Chhaava ki dhoom machi hui hai': PM Narendra Modi applauds Vicky Kaushal's period drama On Friday (Feb 21), Prime Minister Narendra Modi lauded Vicky Kaushal's recently released film Chhaava. The period drama is currently garnering a lot of appraise from all quarters, especially for its engaging storytelling and prolific performance from the lead cast.

Top 10 world news: US envoy praises talks with Zelensky; Gaza ceasefire updates, and more

UN experts are warning repeatedly that the occupied West Bank is facing Gaza-like conditions, with forced displacements, house demolitions, increased checkpoints, and a dire situation in the Palestinian territory. Watch in for more details!

Israel-Hamas war: Unprecedented displacement in the occupied West Bank

The Israeli military said on Friday that one of the bodies released by Hamas did not belong to any of the hostages held in Gaza, accusing Hamas of violating an already shaky ceasefire. Watch in for more details!

Israel says Shiri Bibas is not among bodies returned from Gaza, Hamas pledges to investigate

Body released by Hamas is not of hostage Shiri Bibas: Israeli military

After Israel claimed that a body returned by Hamas Thursday was not of Israeli hostage Shiri Bibas, the Palestinian militant group on Friday (Feb 21) said that the Israeli hostage's remains had been burried in the rubble along with other human remains after an Israeli air strike hit the place where she was being held captive.&nbsp;
Hamas official Ismail al-Thawabteh claimed that Shiri's body was "turned into pieces" after apparently being mixed with other bodies under the rubble in the attack. He stressed that Israel was behind her death.&nbsp;
For the last one year, Hamas has been claiming that Shiri and her two young sons were killed in an Israeli airstrike.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-accuses-hamas-of-murdering-months-old-kfir-bibas-and-4-year-old-ariel-bibas-says-body-of-their-mother-not-returned-as-promised-8741958">Hamas murdered youngest hostages Ariel and Kfir Bibas, says Israel, mother's body missing</a>
They said the remains placed in a coffin labeled with Shiri&rsquo;s face were actually that of an unidentified Gazan woman.
On Thursday, Hamas handed over the remains of what it claimed were of Shiri, Ariel, and Kfir Bibas, along with the body of Oded Lifshitz, an Israeli journalist and advocate for Palestinian rights. This marked the first return of Israeli bodies under the ongoing ceasefire in Gaza. &nbsp; &nbsp;
Hamas in a statement, said that it will examine these allegations "very seriously" and announce the results of its investigation.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/death-cult-netanyahu-vows-vengeance-against-hamas-after-it-parades-dead-bodies-of-israeli-hostages-8741079">&lsquo;Death cult&rsquo;: Netanyahu vows vengeance against Hamas after it &lsquo;parades dead bodies&rsquo; of Israeli hostages</a>
<h2>'Unspeakable cynicism'</h2>
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Friday slammed "unspeakable cynicism" of Hamas after Israeli forensic authorities determined that the body handed over yesterday which Hamas said was of Shiri, is not her's.&nbsp;
&ldquo;The cruelty of the Hamas monsters knows no bounds,&rdquo; Netanyahu said in a video statement.
He added, "Not only did they kidnap the father, Yarden Bibas, but the young mother, Shiri, and their two small babies. But in an unspeakably cynical manner, they did not return Shiri alongside her young children, the little angels, and they put the body of a Gazan woman in the coffin.&rdquo;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-hoped-prayed-for-different-ending-families-crushed-as-hamas-releases-israeli-hostages-bodies-8740171">&lsquo;We hoped, prayed for a different ending&rsquo;: Families crushed as Hamas releases Israeli hostages&rsquo;&nbsp;bodies</a>
He vowed to act "resolutely to bring Shiri home along with all our hostages, both living and dead, and ensure that Hamas pays the full price for this cruel and evil violation of the agreement.&rdquo;
<h2>Herzog slams Hamas for 'horrific violation' of deal&nbsp;</h2>
Israeli President Isaac Herzog slammed the Palestinian militant group of &ldquo;horrific violation&rdquo; after it handed over the body of an unidentified Gazan woman.&nbsp;
&ldquo;The bodies of Ariel and Kfir, so pure and innocent, were identified, while their beloved mother, Shiri, remains in captivity,&rdquo; says Herzog in a statement. &ldquo;This is a shocking and horrific violation of the ceasefire agreement, another cruel act by the terrorists of Hamas, who continue to show utter disregard for humanity.&rdquo;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israels-bat-yam-hit-by-multiple-bus-explosions-in-suspected-terrorist-attack-8742042">Israel's Bat Yam hit by multiple bus explosions in 'suspected terrorist attack'</a>
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Hamas official said that Shiri's body was "turned into pieces" after apparently being mixed with other bodies under the rubble, reiterating Israel was behind her death.

After Israel claimed that a body returned by Hamas Thursday was not of Israeli hostage Shiri Bibas, the Palestinian militant group on Friday (Feb 21) said that the Israeli hostage's remains had been burried in the rubble along with other human remains after an Israeli air strike hit the place where she was being held captive. Hamas official Ismail al-Thawabteh claimed that Shiri's body was "turned into pieces" after apparently being mixed with other bodies under the rubble in the attack. He stressed that Israel was behind her death. For the last one year, Hamas has been claiming that Shiri and her two young sons were killed in an Israeli airstrike. Also read: Hamas murdered youngest hostages Ariel and Kfir Bibas, says Israel, mother's body missing They said the remains placed in a coffin labeled with Shiri’s face were actually that of an unidentified Gazan woman. On Thursday, Hamas handed over the remains of what it claimed were of Shiri, Ariel, and Kfir Bibas, along with the body of Oded Lifshitz, an Israeli journalist and advocate for Palestinian rights. This marked the first return of Israeli bodies under the ongoing ceasefire in Gaza. Hamas in a statement, said that it will examine these allegations "very seriously" and announce the results of its investigation. Also read: ‘Death cult’: Netanyahu vows vengeance against Hamas after it ‘parades dead bodies’ of Israeli hostages 'Unspeakable cynicism' Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Friday slammed "unspeakable cynicism" of Hamas after Israeli forensic authorities determined that the body handed over yesterday which Hamas said was of Shiri, is not her's. “The cruelty of the Hamas monsters knows no bounds,” Netanyahu said in a video statement. He added, "Not only did they kidnap the father, Yarden Bibas, but the young mother, Shiri, and their two small babies. But in an unspeakably cynical manner, they did not return Shiri alongside her young children, the little angels, and they put the body of a Gazan woman in the coffin.” Also read: ‘We hoped, prayed for a different ending’: Families crushed as Hamas releases Israeli hostages’ bodies He vowed to act "resolutely to bring Shiri home along with all our hostages, both living and dead, and ensure that Hamas pays the full price for this cruel and evil violation of the agreement.” Herzog slams Hamas for 'horrific violation' of deal Israeli President Isaac Herzog slammed the Palestinian militant group of “horrific violation” after it handed over the body of an unidentified Gazan woman. “The bodies of Ariel and Kfir, so pure and innocent, were identified, while their beloved mother, Shiri, remains in captivity,” says Herzog in a statement. “This is a shocking and horrific violation of the ceasefire agreement, another cruel act by the terrorists of Hamas, who continue to show utter disregard for humanity.” Also read: Israel's Bat Yam hit by multiple bus explosions in 'suspected terrorist attack' (With inputs from agencies)

'Evil violation of truce': Amid outrage, Hamas says Shiri Bibas's remains 'mixed in rubble' of Israeli strike

The Israeli military says forensic testing revealed the body of hostage Shiri Bibas was not returned from Gaza with those of her two young sons. Watch this report for more details!

IDF: One of four bodies returned by Hamas is not of Shiri Bibas

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Thursday (Feb 20) slammed the Palestinian militant group Hamas as a "death cult" after it displayed coffins containing the bodies of four Israeli hostages.&nbsp;
The hostages included a baby and a small child.&nbsp;
&ldquo;Hamas is not a resistance movement. Hamas is a death cult that murders, tortures, and parades dead bodies,&rdquo; government spokesman David Mencer told journalists.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-hoped-prayed-for-different-ending-families-crushed-as-hamas-releases-israeli-hostages-bodies-8740171">&lsquo;We hoped, prayed for a different ending&rsquo;: Families crushed as Hamas releases Israeli hostages&rsquo;&nbsp;bodies</a>
<h2>Netanyahu vows vengeance&nbsp;</h2>
Israeli PM Netanyahu, in a message of victory over Hamas, said, &ldquo;We are all united in unbearable grief.&rdquo;&nbsp;
&ldquo;We all ache with pain that is mixed with rage. We are all furious at the monsters of Hamas,&rdquo; he said, adding that Israel must &ldquo;settle the score with the vile murderers&mdash;and we will settle the score.&rdquo;
The Israeli PM promised to achieve the longstanding goals of the war.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/day-of-grief-for-israel-says-netanyahu-as-hamas-confirms-youngest-hostage-kfir-bibass-body-among-dead-to-be-released-today-8738314">&lsquo;Day of grief&rsquo;, says Netanyahu as Hamas prepares to return baby Kfir Bibas&rsquo;s body</a>
&ldquo;We will bring back all our hostages, destroy the murderers, eliminate Hamas, and together&mdash;with God&rsquo;s help&mdash;we will secure our future,&rdquo; he added.&nbsp;
<h2>'Hamas will be destroyed'&nbsp;</h2>
Israel's Defence Minister Israel Katz vowed to destroy the Palestinian militant group Hamas.
&ldquo;The heart of the entire nation is mourning today,&rdquo; Katz posted on X.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-will-release-all-remaining-israeli-hostages-in-single-swap-during-second-phase-of-gaza-agreement-8737579">Hamas to free 'all Israeli hostages' in single swap during phase two of Gaza truce</a>
&ldquo;Hamas abducted, Hamas murdered, Hamas will be destroyed,&rdquo; he stressed, adding that Israel will take revenge against their enemies and secure its future.
Hamas on Thursday (Feb 20) revealed black coffins in southern Gaza, displaying the names and photos of Shiri Bibas and her two young sons, Ariel and Kfir, pinned to the casket.
According to Hamas, the bodies handed over include those of Oded Lifshitz, 83, along with 32-year-old Shiri Bibas and her two children, who were just nine months and four years old when they were taken hostage.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-hands-over-bodies-of-four-israeli-hostages-including-mother-and-young-sons-8739430">'Our hearts lie in tatters': Israel mourns after receiving bodies of dead Gaza hostages</a>
(With inputs from agencies)

World Middle East: “Hamas is not a resistance movement. Hamas is a death cult that murders, tortures, and parades dead bodies,” government spokesman David Mencer told journalists.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Thursday (Feb 20) slammed the Palestinian militant group Hamas as a "death cult" after it displayed coffins containing the bodies of four Israeli hostages. The hostages included a baby and a small child. “Hamas is not a resistance movement. Hamas is a death cult that murders, tortures, and parades dead bodies,” government spokesman David Mencer told journalists. Also read: ‘We hoped, prayed for a different ending’: Families crushed as Hamas releases Israeli hostages’ bodies Netanyahu vows vengeance Israeli PM Netanyahu, in a message of victory over Hamas, said, “We are all united in unbearable grief.” “We all ache with pain that is mixed with rage. We are all furious at the monsters of Hamas,” he said, adding that Israel must “settle the score with the vile murderers—and we will settle the score.” The Israeli PM promised to achieve the longstanding goals of the war. Also read: ‘Day of grief’, says Netanyahu as Hamas prepares to return baby Kfir Bibas’s body “We will bring back all our hostages, destroy the murderers, eliminate Hamas, and together—with God’s help—we will secure our future,” he added. 'Hamas will be destroyed' Israel's Defence Minister Israel Katz vowed to destroy the Palestinian militant group Hamas. “The heart of the entire nation is mourning today,” Katz posted on X. Also read: Hamas to free 'all Israeli hostages' in single swap during phase two of Gaza truce “Hamas abducted, Hamas murdered, Hamas will be destroyed,” he stressed, adding that Israel will take revenge against their enemies and secure its future. Hamas on Thursday (Feb 20) revealed black coffins in southern Gaza, displaying the names and photos of Shiri Bibas and her two young sons, Ariel and Kfir, pinned to the casket. According to Hamas, the bodies handed over include those of Oded Lifshitz, 83, along with 32-year-old Shiri Bibas and her two children, who were just nine months and four years old when they were taken hostage. Also read: 'Our hearts lie in tatters': Israel mourns after receiving bodies of dead Gaza hostages (With inputs from agencies)

‘Death cult’: Netanyahu vows vengeance against Hamas after it ‘parades dead bodies’ of Israeli hostages

Hamas today handed over four dead bodies of Israeli hostages taken on the 7th of October 2023. This marks the first time since the truce and exchange process began that the dead bodies of hostages have been transferred. Watch in for more details!

Israel-Hamas conflict: Will Israel-Hamas extend ceasefire?

Hamas on Thursday handed over the bodies of four Israeli hostages held in Gaza — the first time the group has released deceased captives since October 7, 2023. Watch in for more details!

Israel-Hamas conflict: Hamas hands over bodies of four hostages

The Israeli military on Thursday (Feb 20) said that it had received the bodies of four hostages handed over by Hamas, through the Red Cross, in Gaza.
Israeli President Isaac Herzog mourned the deaths of four hostages, believed to include members of the Bibas family, who have become symbols of the ordeal.
"Our hearts -- the hearts of the entire nation -- lie in tatters," Herzog said in a statement released after Hamas handed over the bodies.
<h2 class="p1">Hamas hands over bodies of four Israeli hostages</h2>
Hamas has handed over four bodies claimed to be those of Israeli hostages, including a mother and her two young sons, who had become a powerful symbol in Israel of the struggles faced by hostages held in Gaza.&nbsp;
To verify their identities, the bodies will undergo forensic testing in Israel.&nbsp; 
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/its-possible-trump-eyes-new-trade-deal-with-china-8738910">&lsquo;It&rsquo;s possible&rsquo;: Trump eyes new trade deal with China</a>
<h2 class="p2">Four bodies handed over to Hamas </h2>
The bodies handed over by Hamas are believed to be of Shiri Bibas, 33, and her two young sons, Ariel, 4, and Kfir, just nine months old, when they were taken captive. The fourth body is of 84-year-old Oded Lifshitz. 
All four were taken hostage during the Hamas-led attack on Israel's Kibbutz Nir Oz on October 7, 2023. 
Hamas claims they were killed in Israeli strikes during the Gaza war, although Israel did not confirm their deaths, expressing concerns that Hamas' claims might be part of their psychological warfare. 
Yarden Bibas, the husband of Shiri Bibas, was also taken hostage by Hamas militants during the October 7, 2023, attack on their home in Nir Oz, Israel.&nbsp; 
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-criticises-teslas-plans-to-set-up-factory-in-india-as-unfair-to-us-amid-trade-disparities-8738487">Trump criticises Tesla's plans to set up factory in India as 'unfair' to US amid trade disparities</a>
Yarden was released alive earlier this month, as part of a prisoner exchange agreement. 
The Bibas family, especially their two young redheaded children, Ariel and Kfir, had become a powerful symbol of the hostage crisis in Israel, with their faces appearing on posters and commemorations held on their birthdays. 
The family's plight had captured the hearts of many Israelis, who rallied around them, demanding their safe release. 
Lifshitz was a retired journalist and peace activist who helped found the kibbutz Nir Oz. 
He volunteered with Road to Recovery, an Israeli organization of volunteers who drive Palestinians to hospital appointments in Israel and the Israeli-occupied West Bank. His wife, Yocheved, 85, was also taken hostage and freed after about two weeks. 
<h2 class="p2">Hamas handover ceremony</h2>
The remains were handed over to the Red Cross in a formal ceremony near a Khan Younis cemetery, with masked Hamas gunmen overseeing the event. Four coffins, draped in black, were displayed on a stage with posters bearing messages in Hebrew and English.
One poster depicted Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu as a fanged vampire. Another threatened that if Israel resumed the Gaza war, other hostages would be returned in coffins. 
(With inputs from agencies)
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Israeli military confirms receipt of four hostages' bodies from Hamas via the Red Cross in Gaza, underscoring ongoing tensions and humanitarian efforts in the region.

The Israeli military on Thursday (Feb 20) said that it had received the bodies of four hostages handed over by Hamas, through the Red Cross, in Gaza. Israeli President Isaac Herzog mourned the deaths of four hostages, believed to include members of the Bibas family, who have become symbols of the ordeal. "Our hearts -- the hearts of the entire nation -- lie in tatters," Herzog said in a statement released after Hamas handed over the bodies. Hamas hands over bodies of four Israeli hostages Hamas has handed over four bodies claimed to be those of Israeli hostages, including a mother and her two young sons, who had become a powerful symbol in Israel of the struggles faced by hostages held in Gaza. To verify their identities, the bodies will undergo forensic testing in Israel. Also read | ‘It’s possible’: Trump eyes new trade deal with China Four bodies handed over to Hamas The bodies handed over by Hamas are believed to be of Shiri Bibas, 33, and her two young sons, Ariel, 4, and Kfir, just nine months old, when they were taken captive. The fourth body is of 84-year-old Oded Lifshitz. All four were taken hostage during the Hamas-led attack on Israel's Kibbutz Nir Oz on October 7, 2023. Hamas claims they were killed in Israeli strikes during the Gaza war, although Israel did not confirm their deaths, expressing concerns that Hamas' claims might be part of their psychological warfare. Yarden Bibas, the husband of Shiri Bibas, was also taken hostage by Hamas militants during the October 7, 2023, attack on their home in Nir Oz, Israel. Also read | Trump criticises Tesla's plans to set up factory in India as 'unfair' to US amid trade disparities Yarden was released alive earlier this month, as part of a prisoner exchange agreement. The Bibas family, especially their two young redheaded children, Ariel and Kfir, had become a powerful symbol of the hostage crisis in Israel, with their faces appearing on posters and commemorations held on their birthdays. The family's plight had captured the hearts of many Israelis, who rallied around them, demanding their safe release. Lifshitz was a retired journalist and peace activist who helped found the kibbutz Nir Oz. He volunteered with Road to Recovery, an Israeli organization of volunteers who drive Palestinians to hospital appointments in Israel and the Israeli-occupied West Bank. His wife, Yocheved, 85, was also taken hostage and freed after about two weeks. Hamas handover ceremony The remains were handed over to the Red Cross in a formal ceremony near a Khan Younis cemetery, with masked Hamas gunmen overseeing the event. Four coffins, draped in black, were displayed on a stage with posters bearing messages in Hebrew and English. One poster depicted Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu as a fanged vampire. Another threatened that if Israel resumed the Gaza war, other hostages would be returned in coffins. (With inputs from agencies)

'Our hearts lie in tatters': Israel mourns after receiving bodies of dead Gaza hostages

Hamas is set to release the bodies of Shiri Bibas, Ariel Bibas, and Kfir Bibas to Israel, along with Oded Lifshitz as the fourth hostage. This comes amid heightened tensions and reports of a Hezbollah operative being targeted by the IDF in Lebanon, marking the first death since Israeli troop withdrawal from the region.

Israel-Hamas War: Hamas to hand over bodies of Bibas family

Israel-Hamas conflict: Hamas set to hand over bodies of four hostages

Senior Hamas official Taher al-Nunu said that the Palestinian militant group will be releasing all remaining hostages in a single swap during the second phase of the Gaza ceasefire deal.
Taher al-Nunu said that they have informed mediators about this.&nbsp;
&ldquo;We have informed the mediators that Hamas is ready to release all hostages in one batch during the second phase of the agreement, rather than in stages, as in the current first phase,&rdquo; Taher al-Nunu said.
Nunu did not clarify if the Hamas group will also release the bodies of dead hostages, which are slated to be transferred in the third phase.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/world/palestinians-must-decide-future-of-gaza-and-hamas-not-israel-or-us-says-qatar-8733765">Palestinians must decide future of Gaza and Hamas, not Israel or US, says Qatar</a>
As per the second phase of the agreement, the war will end and also include the withdrawal of all IDF troops from Gaza.&nbsp;
<h2>IDF to receive four bodies of slain Israeli hostages&nbsp;</h2>
The Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) on Wednesday said that they are ready for tomorrow's transfer by Hamas of four slain Israeli hostages, including preparations for a brief military ceremony upon receiving the bodies.
Hamas has announced that it will be handing over the bodies of Shiri Silberman Bibas and her two young children, Ariel and Kfir, along with another slain hostage who has not been named.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/committed-to-trumps-gaza-plan-for-a-different-gaza-says-israeli-pm-netanyahu-8729775">'Committed' to Trump's plan for 'a different Gaza', says Israeli PM Netanyahu</a>
The bodies will be handed over by Hamas to the Red Cross, which will bring them to Israeli forces inside the Gaza Strip.&nbsp;
The IDF will be holding a respectful ceremony in Gaza after receiving the bodies. The bodies will be placed in coffins draped in Israeli flags and carried by Israeli troops into IDF vehicles.
The IDF said that it will also investigate the causes of the deaths of the hostages, and that, at this stage, claims made by Hamas are unverified.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-to-release-four-hostage-bodies-thursday-six-living-captives-saturday-8733535">Hamas to release six living captives, bodies of four hostages this week, confirms Israel</a>
Notably, officials have asked Israeli media to refrain from broadcasting the event of receiving the bodies.&nbsp;
Moreover, Hamas will release six living hostages on Saturday: Tal Shoham, Omer Shem-Tov, Eliya Cohen, Omer Wenkert, Avera Mengistu, and Hisham al-Sayed.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/clear-tangible-danger-hostage-families-seek-clarity-from-netanyahu-over-failure-to-hold-phase-two-talks-8736159">'Clear danger': Hostages' families seek clarity from Israeli PM over 'failure' to hold Gaza phase two talks</a>
(With inputs from agencies)

World: The Hamas official did not clarify if the group will also release the bodies of dead hostages, which are slated to be transferred in the third phase.

Senior Hamas official Taher al-Nunu said that the Palestinian militant group will be releasing all remaining hostages in a single swap during the second phase of the Gaza ceasefire deal. Taher al-Nunu said that they have informed mediators about this. “We have informed the mediators that Hamas is ready to release all hostages in one batch during the second phase of the agreement, rather than in stages, as in the current first phase,” Taher al-Nunu said. Nunu did not clarify if the Hamas group will also release the bodies of dead hostages, which are slated to be transferred in the third phase. Also read: Palestinians must decide future of Gaza and Hamas, not Israel or US, says Qatar As per the second phase of the agreement, the war will end and also include the withdrawal of all IDF troops from Gaza. IDF to receive four bodies of slain Israeli hostages The Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) on Wednesday said that they are ready for tomorrow's transfer by Hamas of four slain Israeli hostages, including preparations for a brief military ceremony upon receiving the bodies. Hamas has announced that it will be handing over the bodies of Shiri Silberman Bibas and her two young children, Ariel and Kfir, along with another slain hostage who has not been named. Also read: 'Committed' to Trump's plan for 'a different Gaza', says Israeli PM Netanyahu The bodies will be handed over by Hamas to the Red Cross, which will bring them to Israeli forces inside the Gaza Strip. The IDF will be holding a respectful ceremony in Gaza after receiving the bodies. The bodies will be placed in coffins draped in Israeli flags and carried by Israeli troops into IDF vehicles. The IDF said that it will also investigate the causes of the deaths of the hostages, and that, at this stage, claims made by Hamas are unverified. Also read: Hamas to release six living captives, bodies of four hostages this week, confirms Israel Notably, officials have asked Israeli media to refrain from broadcasting the event of receiving the bodies. Moreover, Hamas will release six living hostages on Saturday: Tal Shoham, Omer Shem-Tov, Eliya Cohen, Omer Wenkert, Avera Mengistu, and Hisham al-Sayed. Also read: 'Clear danger': Hostages' families seek clarity from Israeli PM over 'failure' to hold Gaza phase two talks (With inputs from agencies)

Hamas to free 'all Israeli hostages' in single swap during phase two of Gaza truce

As the Gaza ceasefire agreement faces ups and downs while being executed, the families of hostages said that the lack of talks on the second stage of the deal is a "clear and tangible" danger to their loved ones.&nbsp;
The families of hostages demanded "urgent clarifications" from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu over the apparent lack of progress in the negotiations.&nbsp;
&ldquo;The failure to hold phase two [talks] represents a clear and tangible danger to the dozens of live abductees, and the ability to bury the dead on Israeli soil,&rdquo; the forum said in a statement.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/world/palestinians-must-decide-future-of-gaza-and-hamas-not-israel-or-us-says-qatar-8733765">Palestinians must decide future of Gaza and Hamas, not Israel or US, says Qatar</a>
&ldquo;The news of the advance return of hostages on Saturday is clear proof that it is possible to expedite the timetables and return everyone in a much shorter period of time,&rdquo; the statement to Netanyahu read.
They further demanded "urgent clarifications regarding the continuity of the agreement."
Notably, the six remaining living Israeli hostages will be released in the first phase of the Gaza truce deal on Saturday, Israeli and Hamas officials confirmed on Tuesday.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-to-release-four-hostage-bodies-thursday-six-living-captives-saturday-8733535">Hamas to release six living captives, bodies of four hostages this week, confirms Israel</a>
&ldquo;The release of the six hostages is the result of ongoing talks in Cairo,&rdquo; said a statement from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office.
The Palestinian militant group further said that it would also transfer the bodies of mother Shiri Silberman Bibas and her two young children, Ariel and Kfir, to Israel tomorrow, as well as that of a fourth unnamed hostage.&nbsp;
Moreover, Israel confirmed that they are expecting to receive four bodies, without identifying them.&nbsp;
Israel also hinted at initiating negotiations on the second phase of the Gaza ceasefire deal in the coming days.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-to-begin-negotiations-on-second-phase-of-gaza-ceasefire-deal-demands-complete-demilitarisation-8732546">Israel to begin negotiations on second phase of Gaza ceasefire deal, demands 'complete demilitarisation'</a>
Foreign Minister Gideon Saar said on Tuesday (Feb 18) that negotiations on the second phase of the Gaza ceasefire deal would begin &ldquo;this week&rdquo;. He added that it will include the exchange of Israeli hostages with Palestinian prisoners.
<h2>Identification of hostages&rsquo; bodies may take time</h2>
Health Minister Uriel Buso says that the identification of the bodies of four hostages to be returned by Hamas tomorrow could take some time. He stressed that there is a need to establish the causes of death if possible.&nbsp;
&ldquo;I visited the Institute of Forensic Medicine to see the preparation for the return of the fallen,&rdquo; the minister said, adding, &ldquo;The professionals here have been prepared to quickly receive them, so that identification can be carried out as promptly as possible.&rdquo;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-must-compel-israel-to-abide-by-ceasefire-deal-to-secure-hostage-release-says-hamas-8724522">'US must compel Israel to abide by ceasefire deal' to secure hostage release', says Hamas</a>
Buso further said that the identification process might not be immediate, depending on the condition of the bodies.
(With inputs from agencies)

World Middle East: The families of hostages demanded "urgent clarifications" from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu over the apparent lack of progress in the negotiations.

As the Gaza ceasefire agreement faces ups and downs while being executed, the families of hostages said that the lack of talks on the second stage of the deal is a "clear and tangible" danger to their loved ones. The families of hostages demanded "urgent clarifications" from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu over the apparent lack of progress in the negotiations. “The failure to hold phase two [talks] represents a clear and tangible danger to the dozens of live abductees, and the ability to bury the dead on Israeli soil,” the forum said in a statement. Also read: Palestinians must decide future of Gaza and Hamas, not Israel or US, says Qatar “The news of the advance return of hostages on Saturday is clear proof that it is possible to expedite the timetables and return everyone in a much shorter period of time,” the statement to Netanyahu read. They further demanded "urgent clarifications regarding the continuity of the agreement." Notably, the six remaining living Israeli hostages will be released in the first phase of the Gaza truce deal on Saturday, Israeli and Hamas officials confirmed on Tuesday. Also read: Hamas to release six living captives, bodies of four hostages this week, confirms Israel “The release of the six hostages is the result of ongoing talks in Cairo,” said a statement from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office. The Palestinian militant group further said that it would also transfer the bodies of mother Shiri Silberman Bibas and her two young children, Ariel and Kfir, to Israel tomorrow, as well as that of a fourth unnamed hostage. Moreover, Israel confirmed that they are expecting to receive four bodies, without identifying them. Israel also hinted at initiating negotiations on the second phase of the Gaza ceasefire deal in the coming days. Also read: Israel to begin negotiations on second phase of Gaza ceasefire deal, demands 'complete demilitarisation' Foreign Minister Gideon Saar said on Tuesday (Feb 18) that negotiations on the second phase of the Gaza ceasefire deal would begin “this week”. He added that it will include the exchange of Israeli hostages with Palestinian prisoners. Identification of hostages’ bodies may take time Health Minister Uriel Buso says that the identification of the bodies of four hostages to be returned by Hamas tomorrow could take some time. He stressed that there is a need to establish the causes of death if possible. “I visited the Institute of Forensic Medicine to see the preparation for the return of the fallen,” the minister said, adding, “The professionals here have been prepared to quickly receive them, so that identification can be carried out as promptly as possible.” Also read: 'US must compel Israel to abide by ceasefire deal' to secure hostage release', says Hamas Buso further said that the identification process might not be immediate, depending on the condition of the bodies. (With inputs from agencies)

'Clear danger': Hostages' families seek clarity from Israeli PM over 'failure' to hold Gaza phase two talks

Hamas plans to release six hostages on Saturday, while discussions continue on freeing all living Israeli hostages. The group also announced it will hand over the bodies of four other deceased captives on Thursday.

Israel-Hamas War: Hamas to free six living hostages and hand over 4 bodies

Israel-Hamas War: Hamas to release six living Israeli hostages and hand over four bodies this week

Hamas plans to release six hostages on Saturday, while discussions continue on freeing all living Israeli hostages. Reports estimate that $53 billion is needed for Gaza's reconstruction and recovery efforts.

Israel-Hamas war: Hamas to release hostages as Gaza recovery efforts continue

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