Hamas leader in Gaza announces transfer of bodies of four dead hostages to Israel

The Palestinian radical movement Hamas will hand over the bodies of four dead hostages to Israel on Thursday, February 20. The announcement was made by the movement's leader in the Gaza Strip, Khalil al-Heya, on February 18.

"Four bodies of Israeli captives will be handed over on Thursday in preparation for the start of the second phase of negotiations on a ceasefire agreement," reads the Telegram channel of the Quds portal.

It is noted that including the bodies of the family members of the previously released Yarden Bibas will be handed over.

Six more hostages will be handed over to the Israeli side on Saturday, February 22.

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Advisor to the Office of the Prime Minister of Israel Dmitry Gendelman said on February 15 that 73 Israeli citizens are still being held hostage in the Gaza Strip. He emphasized that the first phase of the agreement released 19 hostages, including five military men.