Gaza City, Gaza Strip – Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announces that Hamas plans to release six hostages this week, allowing Gazans to return to their homes in northern Gaza starting Monday. Among the hostages is Arbel Yehud, a civilian central to the conflict that delayed the return of Gazans to the region.

Previously, Hamas released four soldiers on Saturday, but Yehud was not among them. Israel accuses Hamas of violating the ceasefire by failing to release Israeli civilians before Palestinians prisoners. Since the ceasefire agreement took effect, seven hostages and over 200 prisoners have been released.

Thousands of displaced Palestinians seeking to return to northern Gaza have gathered at a military barrier blocking their passage for two days. The ceasefire deal, including the release of hostages and prisoners, was implemented on January 19, with two exchanges already completed.

The upcoming third exchange will see Ms. Yehud and two other hostages released on Friday, followed by three more on Saturday, according to Netanyahu and Qatar, who mediated the negotiations. Israel will initiate the return of Palestinians to the north on Monday and release additional Palestinian prisoners later in the week.

As part of the ceasefire terms, Palestinians were scheduled to be allowed past the Netzarim Corridor, controlled by Israel and separating north Gaza from the rest of the territory, on Saturday. Images depict large crowds waiting to cross through.

Qatari and Egyptian mediators, involved in facilitating talks between Israel and Hamas, played a crucial role in resolving the issue concerning Ms. Yehud. Qatar’s foreign ministry spokesman announced the breakthrough shortly before Israel’s prime minister. Israel had requested proof from Hamas that Yehud was alive, a requirement reportedly fulfilled by the Egyptians on Saturday evening.

The ceasefire agreement in January halted the conflict initiated by Hamas attacking Israel in October 2023, resulting in approximately 1,200 deaths and 251 individuals taken as hostages. Gaza’s Hamas-run health ministry reports that over 47,200 Palestinians, mainly civilians, have been killed in Israel’s offensive.