A senior U.S. advisor stated that the first phase of the agreement to end the war in Gaza has been completed "successfully" and that the transition to the second phase is currently underway, noting the beginning of the formation of an "international stabilization force."

The U.S. advisor explained on Wednesday, during an off-camera briefing for journalists regarding developments in President Donald Trump's peace plan for the Middle East, that "the short-term focus remains on calming the conflict to ensure that unnecessary provocations do not occur."

The advisor, who requested anonymity, added that Washington intends to continue working with both parties and urging them to exercise restraint and create the appropriate conditions for disarmament in Gaza, according to his statement.

He indicated that his country does not see Hamas as having violated the agreement regarding the handover of the bodies of the detained Israelis so far.

Hamas has released all 20 living Israeli prisoners under the agreement and handed over 10 bodies, confirming that the return of the remaining bodies requires significant efforts and special equipment.

According to Al Jazeera correspondent Wajd Waqfi, the U.S. advisor mentioned that there are countries, including Turkey, that may send experts to Gaza to assist in searching for and retrieving the bodies of the detained Israelis.

The U.S. advisor stated that the international stabilization force, which is supposed to be sent to the Gaza Strip under Trump's plan, has begun to take shape.

He added that several countries, including Indonesia, have expressed their willingness to participate in this force.

The advisor emphasized that "there is no intention to allow Hamas to have control over any area in Gaza," and he spoke about the possibility of establishing what he called "safe zones" in light of reports regarding executions in Gaza targeting groups cooperating with Israel.

President Donald Trump threatened earlier on Wednesday that he would allow Israel to resume fighting in Gaza if Hamas does not adhere to the agreement.

When asked what might happen if Hamas refuses to give up its weapons, Trump said, "Israel will return to those streets at my word."

Regarding other aspects of Trump's plan, the U.S. advisor told reporters that the second phase includes establishing governance in Gaza by technocrats, indicating that "the process has begun to find the right people."

He added that "successful Palestinians in the diaspora wish to participate and believe in the possibility of creating an alternative to the Palestinian Authority and Hamas."

At the same time, the U.S. advisor mentioned that reconstruction funds will not go to areas controlled by Hamas.

He added that areas like Rafah, which lie behind the yellow line - behind which the occupation forces have withdrawn - may witness a first phase of reconstruction and the establishment of a local security force.

The Israeli occupation army continues to bombard areas in the Gaza Strip from time to time despite the ceasefire, and not all crossings have yet been opened to allow humanitarian aid in accordance with the agreement.

The South African government has confirmed that it is proceeding with its case against the occupation at the International Court of Justice, accusing it of committing genocide in the Gaza Strip despite the announcement of a ceasefire between the occupation and the Palestinian resistance.

In an official statement, the South African Department of International Relations and Cooperation emphasized that the ceasefire does not negate the crimes committed, and that the case at the International Court of Justice aims to prevent the recurrence of violations, not just to temporarily halt them.

It clarified that this legal path reflects South Africa's historical commitment to opposing apartheid and defending the rights of oppressed peoples.

South Africa had filed a case with the International Court of Justice in late 2023, accusing Israel of committing acts amounting to genocide against civilians in Gaza.

The court later issued provisional measures demanding that Israel take urgent steps to protect the population and ensure the delivery of humanitarian aid.

Legally, the court will continue to consider the substance of the case, which may take years, but its mere continuation places Israel under the scrutiny of international law.

The South African stance has been widely welcomed in Palestinian circles, where it is seen as an important step towards achieving international justice and a clear message that crimes do not cease simply with a ceasefire.

At the beginning of 2024, the International Court of Justice ordered "Israel" to take measures to prevent genocide in Gaza and direct incitement to it, rejecting an Israeli request to dismiss the case brought by South Africa.

A large majority of the court's committee, composed of 17 judges, voted in favor of taking urgent measures that meet most of what South Africa requested, and several countries joined the case.

In February, South Africa's Foreign Minister Ronald Lamola pledged to move forward with his country's case regarding genocide against "Israel" at the International Court of Justice, despite the executive order signed by U.S. President Donald Trump to punish the country for its "aggressive" stance towards a U.S. ally.

Lamola stated that there is "no chance" for South Africa to withdraw its case at the International Court of Justice despite Trump's threats.

He added to the British newspaper: "Sticking to our principles sometimes has consequences, but we remain steadfast that this is important for the world and the rule of law."

On that date, the White House announced that Trump had signed an executive order to halt financial aid to South Africa due to its land policy and the genocide case it filed against Israel, a Washington ally.

The United Nations urged Israel on Wednesday to open all crossings 'immediately' to allow aid into the besieged and devastated Gaza Strip, as the prisoner exchange process between the Islamic Resistance Movement (Hamas) and Israel continues, as part of a ceasefire agreement.

Tom Fletcher, head of the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), was quoted by Agence France-Presse saying, 'We demand unrestricted access,' adding, 'We want this to happen now as part of the ceasefire agreement between Hamas and Israel.'

Fletcher is heading to the Rafah crossing from the Egyptian side of the border with Gaza, which has been closed for several months due to the Israeli blockade.

Last Monday, leaders from the United States, Qatar, Egypt, and Turkey signed a guarantee document for the Gaza agreement mediated by U.S. President Donald Trump to cease hostilities and exchange prisoners between Israel and Hamas, reaffirming their commitment 'to a future of lasting peace.'

Fletcher noted that 'the test of this agreement is not through images, press conferences, and interviews... the test is that we feed our children, that we provide anesthesia in hospitals for those receiving treatment, and that we set up tents over people's heads.'

He said, 'We want all crossings to be open, and access to them to be fully available. We must be able to deliver aid on a large scale.'

Earlier on Wednesday, Israeli broadcasting authority reported that the reopening of the Rafah crossing is imminent. This vital crossing for the flow of humanitarian aid waiting to enter from the Egyptian side remains closed.

The United Nations and relief organizations have repeatedly called for its reopening as Gaza faces a severe humanitarian crisis following the devastating Israeli war on the Gaza Strip, which has lasted for two years since October 7, 2023.

At the end of August, the United Nations declared famine in several areas of the strip.

With U.S. support, Israel has committed genocide in Gaza since October 7, 2023, over the course of two years, resulting in 67,913 martyrs, 170,134 injured, most of whom are children and women, and famine that claimed the lives of 463 Palestinians, including 157 children.

The office of Israeli Minister of War Israel Katz stated in a statement that Katz has directed the army to prepare a comprehensive plan to defeat Hamas in the Gaza Strip if the war resumes.

Katz's stance coincided with comments from U.S. President Donald Trump, who stated that a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip is contingent upon Hamas's full compliance, emphasizing that the occupying forces could resume fighting "at a word" from him if the movement does not adhere to the agreement.

In a brief phone call with CNN, Trump added when asked what would happen if Hamas refused to disarm, saying: "Israel will return to those streets at a word from me; if Israel can go into Gaza and eliminate them, they will do it."

He further emphasized his authority on this issue: "I will consider allowing Netanyahu to resume military operations if Hamas refuses to comply with the ceasefire, but he also acknowledged the positive role the movement is currently playing in maintaining security within the sector.

He praised the movement's enforcement of order, saying: "Hamas is currently intervening and eliminating violent gangs," indicating that the movement has begun to implement the security aspect of the agreement aimed at establishing stability within the sector.

Trump confirmed that achieving the first phase of the agreement was of utmost importance, considering the release of prisoners from Gaza to be extremely significant.

These warnings come just two days after the Sharm El-Sheikh peace summit, which witnessed the signing of a comprehensive document to end the war in Gaza attended by about 20 world leaders.

In this context, a leadership source in the Palestinian resistance denied the accuracy of what U.S. President Donald Trump recently announced regarding the launch of the second phase of the ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas, stating: "These statements are completely untrue; negotiations for the second phase have not yet begun, and there is no specific date set for the anticipated negotiations."

He pointed out in exclusive statements that "the Qatari and Egyptian mediators have not communicated with the resistance factions regarding discussions about the second phase of negotiations, and so far no specific date has been agreed upon."

He affirmed that "in light of the Israeli violations of the first phase of the agreement, time is currently being wasted in attempts to close the gaps and force Israel to adhere to the terms of the first phase of the agreement."

On October 10, the first phase of the ceasefire and prisoner exchange agreement came into effect, according to Trump's plan.

In return, Israel released 250 Palestinian prisoners sentenced to life imprisonment, in addition to 1,718 it detained from the Gaza Strip after October 8, 2023, and more than 10,000 Palestinian prisoners, including children and women, remain in Israeli jails, suffering from torture, starvation, and medical neglect, with many having died, according to Palestinian and Israeli human rights and media reports.

U.S. President Donald Trump announced that he has 'ended the war in Gaza,' asserting that Hamas has agreed to lay down its arms, but he warned that if it does not, the United States 'will take care of it.'

These statements come in the wake of the announcement of a historic ceasefire agreement in Gaza, at a time when attention is turning to the ongoing negotiations to implement its terms.

In his recent remarks, Trump provided a comprehensive assessment of several issues, firmly stating: 'We want Hamas to lay down its arms, and they have agreed to do so, and if they do not, we will take care of it.'

The U.S. Central Command, led by Admiral Brad Cooper, called on Hamas to "immediately cease violence and stop targeting Palestinian civilians in the Gaza Strip," considering this a historic moment that should be seized to achieve peace in the region.

Cooper stated in press remarks that "the United States has conveyed its concerns to the mediators who agreed to cooperate in implementing the peace agreement and ensuring the protection of civilians."

He added that "Hamas is required to strictly adhere to the peace plan proposed by U.S. President Donald Trump, which consists of 20 points, and to lay down arms without delay."

Cooper explained: "We are very optimistic about the future of peace in the region."

He emphasized that the ceasefire must include all areas controlled by Hamas and the Israeli occupation army, urging the movement to fully seize this historic opportunity for peace.

In contrast, the "Resistance Security Apparatus" affiliated with Hamas carried out an extensive security campaign against "collaborators with Israel" in several areas of the Gaza Strip, according to Palestinian media reports last Tuesday.

The Palestinian presidency considered these actions "field executions," describing them as having occurred "outside the law and without any fair trials."

On Wednesday, Palestinian resistance factions issued a statement confirming that the security campaign in Gaza enjoys "national consensus" to restore security and pursue "mercenaries and the enemy's lackeys," noting that the efforts of the Ministry of Interior and National Security aim to enforce the law and pursue violators, including collaborators with the occupation and criminals of thuggery and highway robbery.

The factions urged citizens to fully cooperate with security agencies and report on wanted individuals and those who shelter or support them, stressing that concealing these individuals constitutes participation in their crimes, and that anyone proven to be involved will be held accountable under Palestinian revolutionary law.

In a related context, the Gathering of Palestinian Tribes and Clans in Gaza announced its complete rejection of the manifestations of security chaos and thuggery committed by what it described as "rogue elements" during the security vacuum resulting from the war, which contributed to exacerbating the suffering of citizens and threatening public security.

The gathering confirmed the lifting of tribal and familial protection from anyone proven to be involved in any violation threatening community security, calling on all tribes to adhere to the decision and hand over the perpetrators to the relevant authorities.

For his part, Ismail Al-Thawabteh, director of the Government Media Office in Gaza, stated that efforts to restore security and order began immediately after the announcement of the ceasefire, noting the implementation of a comprehensive plan to enforce control and apply the law in all areas of the sector, with the participation of security, police, and civil defense personnel.

Security sources announced last Sunday that security forces had fully controlled an armed militia in Gaza City and had begun a comprehensive sweep operation in the area, resulting in the deaths of several individuals accused of collaborating with the occupation during the clashes, as part of efforts to enhance security and stability in the sector.

U.S. President Donald Trump stated today, Wednesday, that the ceasefire in the Gaza Strip is contingent upon the full commitment of Hamas, emphasizing that the occupying forces could resume fighting "with just a word" from him if the movement does not adhere to the agreement.

However, he acknowledged at the same time the positive role the movement is currently playing in maintaining security within the sector.

In an interview with CNN, Trump positioned himself as a key guarantor of the agreement, sending a clear message to Hamas.

He said: "The army could resume fighting in Gaza with just a word from me if Hamas does not adhere to the ceasefire agreement."

He added, emphasizing his authority on this issue: "I will consider allowing Netanyahu to resume military operations if Hamas refuses to comply with the ceasefire."

Trump praised the role that Hamas has begun to play on the ground in enforcing order, saying: "Hamas is currently intervening and eliminating violent gangs," indicating that the movement has started to implement the security aspect of the agreement aimed at establishing stability within the sector.

Trump confirmed that achieving the first phase of the agreement was of utmost importance, considering that "the release of hostages from Gaza was extremely critical."

These warnings come just two days after the "Sharm El-Sheikh Peace Summit," which witnessed the signing of a comprehensive document to end the war.

The first stages of implementing the agreement have already begun, with the exchange of detainees and prisoners and the flow of aid, but there are still thorny issues awaiting resolution.

With these statements, Trump places himself in a position of final judgment on the success of the agreement, affirming that the continuation of peace depends on the implementation of all the terms that have been agreed upon.

Today, Wednesday, the Israeli army and settlers attacked Palestinian farmers and volunteers during their participation in olive picking in several areas of the occupied West Bank, resulting in injuries and cases of suffocation.

Eyewitnesses reported that the occupation forces fired tear gas canisters at participants in a 'volunteer day' in the town of Al-Nazla Al-Sharqiya, north of Tulkarem, causing dozens to suffer from suffocation.

The area where the assault took place is adjacent to a pastoral settlement outpost established by settlers on the town's land a few months ago.

The event was organized by the 'Wall and Settlement Resistance Commission' to support farmers in areas threatened by settlement expansion, with the participation of dozens of Palestinian and foreign volunteers.

The head of the commission, Muayad Shaaban, stated during his participation in the event that this year's olive season 'is considered one of the most dangerous seasons, amid escalating attacks by settlers supported by the Israeli army.'

Additionally, two Palestinians were injured this evening, one due to an assault by settlers east of Hebron, and the other after a settler deliberately hit a girl's vehicle north of Ramallah, as part of a series of ongoing assaults in the south and center of the West Bank.

The Palestinian Red Crescent Society reported that its crews transported a 41-year-old man to the hospital after he was beaten by settlers in the town of Bani Na'im east of Hebron while trying to reach his home near the entrance of the village of Beirin.

In eastern Bethlehem, the 'Bider Organization for the Defense of Bedouin Rights' reported that settlers gathered in large numbers near the village of Kisan and carried out provocative acts, including cutting down olive trees and damaging agricultural crops, according to eyewitnesses.

In northern Ramallah, the Wall and Settlement Resistance Commission announced that a girl was injured in her foot after a settler deliberately hit her vehicle at the entrance of the town of Attara.

In occupied Jerusalem, sources reported that settlers stormed the Bedouin gathering of 'Khalat Al-Sidra' east of the town of Mukhmas and released their livestock inside the citizens' homes.

Attacks by Israeli settlers increase annually with the start of the olive picking season, which is a primary source of livelihood for thousands of Palestinian families.

According to official Palestinian data, settlers carried out 7,154 attacks against Palestinians and their properties in the West Bank during the years of genocide, resulting in the martyrdom of 33 citizens and the displacement of 33 Bedouin gatherings.

Alongside the Israeli genocide in Gaza, the Israeli army and settlers in the West Bank killed at least 1,052 Palestinians and injured about 10,300 others, in addition to arresting more than 20,000, including 1,600 children.

The UN humanitarian affairs official, Tom Fletcher, called on the occupying entity today, Wednesday, to 'immediately' open all crossings to allow aid into the Gaza Strip, emphasizing that the real test of the ceasefire agreement is not through photos and press conferences, but by feeding children and providing medicine to hospitals.

This urgent UN call comes at a critical time, just days after the fragile ceasefire agreement came into effect, amid an unprecedented humanitarian disaster that has led the UN to officially declare famine in parts of the territory.

Despite allowing limited amounts of aid to enter in recent days, relief organizations confirm that this represents only 'a tiny fraction of what is needed.'

In an interview with AFP from Cairo, the UN Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs, Tom Fletcher, clearly stated the organization's position: 'We demand unrestricted access... We want this to happen now under the ceasefire agreement.'

Fletcher noted that 'the test of this agreement is not through photos and press conferences... the test is that we feed our children, provide anesthesia in hospitals, and set up tents over people's heads.'

Fletcher revealed that he participated in the Sharm El-Sheikh summit, and that US President Donald Trump and world leaders 'were clear that we must be allowed to provide aid on a large scale.'

The UN official confirmed that 'the teams are ready, and the goods are ready,' but what is currently entering is 'dozens of trucks at best... instead of the hundreds of trucks we need to see crossing.'

Fletcher's statements, as he heads tomorrow to the Rafah crossing, represent direct diplomatic pressure on the occupying entity, as they unequivocally link the credibility of the ceasefire agreement to the immediate and unconditional implementation of the humanitarian clause.

The reference to the existence of international consensus at the Sharm El-Sheikh summit, with President Trump participating, is an attempt to use the political momentum of the summit as leverage to compel the occupation to fulfill its commitments.

Diplomatically, these demands place the occupation before its responsibilities, making the aid file the standard by which the world will measure its seriousness in adhering to the agreement.

The UN's call adds a new dimension to the crisis, asserting that any political progress remains ink on paper unless translated into tangible improvements in the lives of civilians on the ground.

With humanitarian teams ready to intervene on a large scale, the ball is now in the court of the occupation, whose decisions regarding the opening of crossings will determine whether the ceasefire agreement will turn into a real beginning to end the suffering, or remain just a fragile truce on the brink of a humanitarian disaster.

Global newspapers and websites have highlighted the post-ceasefire phase in the Gaza Strip, with the American newspaper The Washington Post publishing an article stating that "President Donald Trump's pressure on Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to accept the truce in Gaza does not mean the end of the conflict."

Analysts suggest - according to the article by writer Ishaan Tharoor in The Washington Post - that Netanyahu may escalate tensions again as the 2026 elections approach to save his political future.

The writer considers that the biggest challenge lies in building a real peace, as Trump's plan only offered a general discussion about a reliable path towards a Palestinian state, which is an Arab and international demand, but is rejected by Netanyahu and his allies, with no signs of actual movement to achieve it.

The writer pointed out that "Trump did not show genuine interest in the aspirations of the Palestinians," and considered that "rebuilding Gaza is more of an economic opportunity than a step towards political reconciliation."

According to the writer, Barbara Leaf, Assistant Secretary of State in the administration of former President Joe Biden, believed that ending the war was the easiest part, and that the Trump administration deliberately exaggerated the promotion of normalization between Israel and the Arabs while downplaying the importance of the Palestinian state path.

A report in Newsweek magazine noted a slight increase in the popularity of the American president since the signing of the peace agreement regarding Gaza, in many national opinion polls, which enhanced his image as a dealmaker on the global stage.

The report clarified that Trump's rising popularity following the peace agreement and the positive response from voters to his role in international diplomacy could bolster his position ahead of the 2026 midterm congressional elections.

However, it states that the peace deal remains fragile and is merely a first step facing challenges, the most prominent of which are disarming the Islamic Resistance Movement (Hamas), managing the sector, and ensuring regional stability, and failure to address these issues could lead to the collapse of the agreement.

In an opinion piece in the Israeli newspaper The Jerusalem Post, Gil Troy argued that Israel needs time to recover instead of returning to the divisions that preceded October 7.

He added that Prime Minister Netanyahu must acknowledge his failures regarding the October 7 attack and the mistakes made during the war on Gaza, and form an independent investigative committee comprising prominent non-partisan experts and face his opponents courageously.

Troy added that "Netanyahu must commit to freezing judicial reforms, and if he and his Likud party are confident in the necessity of reform, they should emphasize it in their campaign this time and gain the people's approval first."

On another note, an analysis on the American site "Stratfor" addressed the confrontations on the Pakistan-Afghanistan border and suggested that they may escalate in the coming weeks and possibly for a longer period.

The analysis viewed that the deep-rooted disputes between the two countries regarding their common borders and the strength of the Pakistani Taliban are greater than the international peace efforts attempting to calm tensions between the two countries.

The site added that the border crossings between the two countries remain closed and the calm is fragile, despite efforts from Arab mediators, indicating that this crisis reveals the extent of the complexities surrounding the relations between the two countries.

The site predicts the continuation of violence and border clashes, adding that Arab and international mediations may succeed in bringing some calm, but radical solutions remain out of reach.

Two Palestinians were injured on Wednesday evening, one as a result of an assault by Israeli settlers on a young man east of Hebron, and the other after a settler hit a girl's vehicle north of Ramallah, as part of a series of assaults in the occupied West Bank's south and center.

Alongside the genocide in the Gaza Strip, the Israeli army and settlers in the West Bank have killed at least 1,052 Palestinians and injured about 10,300, in addition to arresting more than 20,000, including 1,600 children.

Since October 8, 2023, Israel, with American support, has committed genocide in the Gaza Strip that has lasted for two years, during which 67,938 Palestinians were killed, and 170,169 others were injured, most of them children and women, with famine claiming the lives of 463 Palestinians, including 157 children.

The Palestinian Red Crescent Society stated in a brief statement that its teams transported a 41-year-old man to the hospital after he was beaten by settlers in the town of Bani Na'im east of Hebron.

According to the Palestinian news agency, the citizen was beaten and mistreated by a group of armed settlers while trying to reach his home near the entrance of the village of Birin east of Hebron, causing him injuries and bruises.

East of Bethlehem, the "Bader Organization for the Defense of Bedouin Rights" stated in a statement that settlers attacked the vicinity of "Kisan Village," gathering in large numbers and carrying out provocative acts, without providing details.

Eyewitnesses also reported that settlers cut down olive trees and damaged crops in the area.

In northern Ramallah, the Wall and Settlement Resistance Commission (governmental) stated that "a girl was injured in her foot after a settler deliberately hit her vehicle at the entrance of the town of Attara."

In the occupied city of Jerusalem, the official Voice of Palestine radio reported that settlers stormed the Bedouin gathering of "Khalat al-Sidra" east of "Mukhmas," releasing their livestock inside the citizens' homes.

According to official Palestinian data, Israeli settlers carried out 7,154 assaults against Palestinians and their properties in the West Bank during the years of genocide.

The crossing is expected to reopen for passenger movement tomorrow, Thursday, after being closed for many months. The initial operation of the crossing will be to receive patients and the injured, not for the entry of goods, with joint management between the authority and the European Union.

The Governor of North Sinai, Major General Khaled Megahed, revealed today, Wednesday, the new mechanism under which the Rafah crossing will operate, confirming that the Palestinian Authority and a European force will manage the crossing from the Palestinian side.

The Governor of North Sinai stated in a statement to Al Arabiya channel that the Egyptian side is fully prepared, and that the initial operation of the crossing will be to receive patients and the injured, not for the entry of goods.

Two years after the Battle of Al-Aqsa Flood and the Israeli war on the Gaza Strip, an agreement has been reached to stop the Israeli aggression under American, Egyptian, Qatari, and Turkish sponsorship, and through the direct role of President Donald Trump.

All these developments confirm that the Palestinian issue has entered a new phase in the upcoming stage, in light of the revival of President Donald Trump's project to conclude Abraham Accords.

How can we read the developments that occurred during the two years of the Battle of Al-Aqsa Flood and the Israeli aggression on the Gaza Strip?

All these events have been the focus of discussions and dialogues in many conferences and seminars recently held in more than one Arab and Western capital.

In summary of the dialogues and discussions that took place, we are now facing a new phase in the Arab-Israeli conflict.

Some circles following the Arab-Israeli conflict consider that President Donald Trump is today trying to impose a new narrative for the conflict.

All these developments will place the resistance forces in the region before significant challenges in how to confront the new Trumpian wave.

The U.S. Central Command issued a series of notable statements today, Wednesday, directly calling on Hamas to stop what it described as "acts of violence and shooting at innocent Palestinian civilians" in the Gaza Strip, and to surrender its weapons, considering that these steps represent a real opportunity that must be seized to achieve peace.

The U.S. Central Command clearly outlined its demands, urging Hamas to "stop acts of violence both in its areas and those secured by the occupation behind the yellow line." The statement added directly: "This is an opportunity for peace that Hamas must seize by withdrawing and committing to the plan and surrendering its weapons without delay."

The Central Command also revealed its communication with the parties involved in mediation efforts, confirming: "We have conveyed our concerns to the mediators who have agreed to work with us to enforce peace and protect civilians in Gaza."

Israeli officials said on Wednesday that negotiations for the implementation of the second phase of the ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas have not yet begun, despite statements from U.S. President Donald Trump on Tuesday confirming the start of the second phase of the agreement.

Israel 24 reported that unnamed Israeli officials stated: "Contrary to reports, negotiations for the second phase have not yet begun and will only start after the completion of the first phase, which involves the return of all the bodies of the hostages (Israeli prisoners)."

It was noted that specialized teams are in Egypt discussing ways to determine the locations of the remains of the Israelis.

The released prisoner Dr. Ahmad Mahna, director of Al-Awda Hospital in northern Gaza Strip, recounts the details of his arrest and imprisonment by the Israeli occupation forces while he was performing his humanitarian duty.

After nearly two years of detention in Israeli occupation prisons, Dr. Mahna was released under the agreement recently reached between the Palestinian resistance and the Israeli occupation.

Dr. Mahna states that on December 16, 2023, a force from the Israeli army came to Al-Awda Hospital and requested him, as the director, to provide them with a list of everyone present in the hospital.

He complied with their request and informed them of the civilian patients, including 45 children and 18 women who had given birth, as well as a medical staff consisting of 78 individuals, in addition to the hospital administration.

Dr. Mahna confirms that the Israeli forces detained him inside a house they had fortified next to the hospital, blindfolded him, and bound his hands with cuffs.

After staying there for 12 hours, he was taken the next day by about 50 Israeli soldiers to the hospital accompanied by armored vehicles and tanks, and they demanded that he bring out all the medical staff inside the hospital.

Dr. Mahna adds in his testimony that the occupation soldiers removed the medical staff and their companions and stripped them of their clothes despite the freezing cold, and they also brought out the patients who could walk and interrogated all of them next to the hospital for 8 hours.

Dr. Mahna states that he asked a responsible officer to allow him to bring blankets for the elderly and patients, but he was refused.

As a result of those interrogations, the occupation soldiers arrested 3 members of the hospital staff and two patients.

Despite the soldiers' claims that the matter was over, Dr. Mahna says he was taken with other prisoners into Israel after their hands were tied and their eyes were covered, and for 20 days they did not know where they were.

He recounts that he was subjected to hours-long interrogation sessions with strange and serious accusations such as: Did you treat prisoners from the soldiers? Do you have bodies of soldiers? Do you have armed individuals inside the hospital?

The interrogation sessions were violent, interspersed with threats and a clear violation of international humanitarian law in a blatant and explicit manner.

Dr. Mahna is astonished by the charges leveled against him, especially since the occupation soldiers seized the cameras of Al-Awda Hospital and have complete information about the patients and those who entered the hospital since October 7.

He also states that he and the other prisoners were taken afterward to a place while their hands were bound and their eyes were blindfolded, and they were left in the open without cover or bedding despite the harsh cold.

While large sectors of Israelis believe that U.S. President Donald Trump's plan to stop the war presents an opportunity that emerged after two years of it, when both the occupation and Hamas realized that an agreement is better than the bloody stalemate, alongside the release of hostages, the plan itself contains weaknesses that may hinder its full implementation, and thus this rare opportunity could become another historical failure for the occupation.

Professor Eli Foudi, a professor of Islamic and Middle Eastern studies at the Hebrew University, and a member of the executive council of the "Mitvim" organization, as well as a member of the regional security alliance, mentioned that "after two years of Hamas's attack, an agreement was signed that could herald the beginning of a new era, resulting from the convergence of two issues: the first being the immense pressures exerted by Trump and his aides, through his allies, Egypt, Qatar, and Turkey, on Hamas, and the second being that both the occupation and Hamas reached a point known in international relations as 'mutually painful stalemate,' where they realized that an agreement is better than the current situation."

He added in an article published by Channel 12, translated by "Arabi21," that "Hamas, which has faced severe military strikes and lost most of its leadership in Gaza, received guarantees against the renewal of fighting; otherwise, it would not have agreed in advance to relinquish the hostage card, which keeps it a significant player in negotiations regarding the future of the sector and the Palestinian cause in general, and presents a victory in terms of awareness, demonstrating its resilience in battle, despite all odds, and even bringing the Palestinian cause back to the center of media attention."

He pointed out that "the occupation has achieved military successes on multiple fronts and inflicted severe damage on Hamas, but it has not been eliminated yet, and its leaders survived an assassination attempt in Doha. After two years of war, the army, which relies heavily on reserve soldiers, realized that it is being dragged into a war of attrition in Gaza, which may take a long time and result in many casualties. Additionally, the exhaustion of Israeli society from the war and the ongoing pressure from protests for the kidnapped has led to a sense of fatigue regarding military action and an understanding that time is not working in favor of the hostages."

He clarified that "Trump's plan offers a great opportunity for a solution, and through my research on the failures of the Arab-Israeli conflict, I discovered that the problem lies in the fact that every ideal opportunity is not actually exploited. There are many examples of failures: Reagan's plan in 1982; the Arab Peace Initiative in 2002; the Roadmap in 2003, and others. The problem with Trump's 20-point plan is that it consists of several plans or a single plan with multiple phases, without a detailed timeline or conditions for transitioning from one phase to another."

He noted that "the first phase is currently being completed, which includes the release of Israeli hostages and Palestinian prisoners, and the provision of humanitarian aid. Changes have already been made to Trump's original plan in this phase, whether regarding the number of released prisoners or the army's withdrawal line. This phase is likely to end successfully, as its conditions have been acceptable to all parties from the beginning. However, alongside the joy that prevailed at the end of the war and the release of hostages, the continuation of negotiations regarding the subsequent phases poses complex problems."

He added that "the main issues awaiting the parties are the establishment of a temporary administration to govern Gaza responsible for implementing economic development plans. Names have been proposed for its leadership, such as former British Prime Minister Tony Blair, who evokes hostility from both the Arab and Islamic sides, leading to the dismantling of Hamas, disarming the sector, the withdrawal of the army, and the entry of an Arab/international force. Thus, according to the writer, this is the critical phase in which the seriousness of all parties in adhering to the agreement will be tested, and each issue could potentially become a focal point for delaying negotiations, or even causing their explosion, although Hamas presents the agreement as a recipe to enhance its legitimacy in Palestinian society."

He concluded by saying that "the impact of the agreement on internal politics in the occupying state is very significant, as the implementation of the first phase of Trump's plan has created the first cracks in the right-wing government. It is expected that as negotiations progress, right-wing opposition will increase, threatening the government's survival. It is reasonable to assume that the end of the war and the return of the kidnapped will lead to increased demands for the establishment of an official investigation committee, and these demands, alongside the continuation of negotiations, will lead to progress in the elections."

This forward-looking reading of the agreement's outcomes in Gaza indicates that the Israeli vision relies on

The "Fatah" movement stated on Wednesday that the Israeli "barbaric" assault on its Central Committee member, prisoner Marwan Barghouti, "will not break his will."

The movement added in a statement that Barghouti was assaulted during his transfer from Ramon Prison to Megiddo by the Israelis last September.

It pointed out that "the blatant assault on Barghouti during his transfer from Ramon Prison to Megiddo Prison constitutes a gross violation of all international charters and legislations, most importantly, the Fourth Geneva Convention."

The movement called on the international community and relevant human rights organizations to "stop the violations of the colonial occupation system against prisoners, including Barghouti."

Fatah held the Israeli government fully responsible for Barghouti, indicating that "the Israeli barbaric assault will not break his will."

The Palestinian Prisoners Media Office affiliated with "Hamas" stated earlier on Wednesday that Barghouti was assaulted during his transfer from Ramon Prison to Megiddo Prison in mid-September.

It added that 8 members of the "Nahshon" unit (affiliated with the Israeli Prison Service) participated in the assault on prisoner Barghouti during his transfer.

The office further stated that Barghouti "lost consciousness and suffered fractures in 4 ribs as a result of being beaten by the Israeli prison suppression unit."

Barghouti is considered one of the most prominent figures with wide popularity among Palestinians, serving five life sentences since 2002 on charges related to the "Al-Aqsa Intifada," which erupted in the fall of 2000.

In August, Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir stormed Barghouti's cell and threatened him, saying: "Whoever kills our children or women, we will erase them; you will not win against us," according to a video clip.

Since Monday, "Hamas" has handed over 8 corpses to the Red Cross and released twenty living Israeli prisoners as part of a ceasefire and prisoner exchange agreement with Israel, which came into effect on Friday.

In return, Israel released 250 Palestinian prisoners serving life sentences, in addition to 1,718 it had detained from the Gaza Strip after October 8, 2023.

Last week, Israeli government spokesperson Shosh Padrosian stated that the prisoner exchange with Hamas does not include the release of Barghouti.

More than 10,000 Palestinian prisoners, including children and women, remain in Israeli prisons, suffering from torture, starvation, and medical neglect, with many reported dead, according to Palestinian and Israeli human rights and media reports.

On October 9, U.S. President Donald Trump announced that Israel and "Hamas" had reached an agreement on the first phase of his plan for a ceasefire and prisoner exchange, following indirect negotiations between the two parties with the participation of Turkey, Egypt, and Qatar, under U.S. supervision.

With U.S. support, Israel has committed genocide in Gaza since October 8, 2023, resulting in 67,938 deaths and 170,169 injuries, most of whom are children and women, and famine that claimed the lives of 463 Palestinians, including 157 children.

In the midst of a rapidly evolving international discussion about what they call the 'next day' after the war in Gaza, a scenario flavored with guardianship and colonialism is being proposed, which involves establishing a transitional administration for the sector under the name 'International Transitional Authority in Gaza.' The White House embodied this proposal within a plan announced by U.S. President Donald Trump on September 29, 2025, which is based on an international oversight council chaired by him, including figures such as his son-in-law Jared Kushner and former British Prime Minister Tony Blair.

The idea comes as part of unofficial proposals so far, and no official entity, whether Palestinian, Israeli, or international, has announced its adoption or commencement of implementation, while opinions from those concerned with the plan and their stance on it have emerged. The Palestinian Authority announced its rejection of any guardianship or international administration over Gaza, as President Mahmoud Abbas stated during his meeting with Blair in Amman that the only viable solution is 'Israel's complete withdrawal from the Gaza Strip, enabling the State of Palestine to assume full responsibilities in the sector, with effective Arab and international support.'

Abbas stated - according to what was reported by the Palestinian News Agency (Wafa) - that sovereignty over the Gaza Strip belongs to the State of Palestine, and that 'the connection between the West Bank and Gaza Strip must be made through Palestinian laws and governmental institutions, and by a Palestinian administrative committee and unified Palestinian security forces, within a single system and law, with Arab and international support.' The leadership of the Authority fears that the formation of a technocratic government under external supervision will diminish its political influence and erode its legitimacy in the eyes of the people and the international community, especially if this government appears to be a real alternative to the internationally recognized institutions of the Authority.

Le Monde reported that the Islamic Resistance Movement (Hamas), after organizing a prisoner exchange with Israel, has begun to redeploy its security apparatus in the Gaza Strip amid rising tensions with local militias suspected of receiving Israeli support.

The French newspaper explained—in a report by Louis Imbert and Marie-Jo Sader—that Hamas has returned to the forefront of events in Gaza after months of absence from the public scene and a decline in its influence due to bombardments, war, and divisions.

In a symbolic scene in Khan Younis city in the southern Gaza Strip, Hamas organized—a wide reception without slogans—for nearly two thousand prisoners released by Israel as part of the first phase of the ceasefire, sending a clear message that the movement is acting in a calculated and studied manner.

About 7,000 employees from government institutions affiliated with Hamas participated in the organization—according to the government media office—in a scene reflecting the restoration of the movement's administrative structures after a near-total collapse of the civil infrastructure due to the prolonged Israeli aggression.

The newspaper noted that strict instructions were issued from the "Resistance Security" to citizens and journalists, calling for discretion and not circulating any information about the exchange operations, under the threat of prosecution and penalties, according to official statements.

The prisoner exchange coincided with an extensive security campaign carried out by Hamas against local armed groups, most notably the Dagmash clan, which exploited the security chaos and took control of civilian facilities, turning them into a military stronghold, according to the newspaper.

According to eyewitnesses, clashes occurred around the clan's base in the Sabra area, and Hamas was able to regain control of the building, at a time when members of the clan were accused of committing murder crimes, including the assassination of photographer Saleh Al-Jaafari.

In an official statement, the Dagmash faction expressed "regret for the transgressions," but accused Hamas of "indiscriminate strikes," denying any connection to the assassination of the journalist.

Hamas and some local sources—according to Le Monde—accuse armed groups, including two factions led by Ashraf Al-Mansi and Yasser Abu Shabab, of receiving direct support from Israeli intelligence, aiming to create chaos and undermine the movement's control.

One of these groups had published advertisements on Facebook seeking volunteers, offering salaries of up to 3,000 shekels (about 800 euros), the newspaper said, but these groups withdrew, with the start of the ceasefire, to border areas known as "the yellow line," which are still under Israeli military control.

Despite the announced U.S. position of not involving Hamas in Gaza's future, U.S. President Donald Trump surprised observers with statements confirming that the movement "is acting within the standards" of the ceasefire, saying, "They expressed their desire to solve problems, and we agreed to give them a temporary opportunity."

In the absence of acceptable political alternatives internally capable of imposing order—as Le Monde states—it seems that Hamas maintains its position as the de facto ruler of the Strip, even outside any international or regional agreements.

Abu Mohammed, a university professor from southern Gaza who refused to disclose his real name, said, "No one but Hamas can govern Gaza today. Simply because it provides security and stability. Even if I politically wish for an alternative authority."

The newspaper concluded that Hamas is repositioning itself as a de facto power in Gaza, despite international political exclusion and regional and local pressures, remaining the most present player, while the Palestinian Authority is preoccupied with developments in the West Bank, and international initiatives remain stagnant.

Medical sources in the Gaza Strip revealed today, Wednesday, concerning indicators regarding the bodies of martyrs recently handed over by the Israeli occupation authorities, suggesting that they may have been subjected to extrajudicial killings.

The sources clarified that several bodies arrived with their hands and eyes bound, which is considered strong evidence that these martyrs may have been executed in the field before their deaths.

Additionally, the sources noted that other horrifying signs appeared on some of the bodies, as traces of tank tracks were observed on them, indicating that some may have been martyred by being run over by Israeli military vehicles during field operations in the sector.

The Israeli occupation will allow the reopening of the Rafah crossing on Wednesday to facilitate the delivery of aid to the Gaza Strip from Egypt, according to the Israeli Broadcasting Authority.

The authority reported on its website, "600 trucks carrying humanitarian aid will be sent to the Gaza Strip (on Wednesday) from the United Nations, accredited international organizations, the private sector, and donor countries," without disclosing its sources.

The occupation authorities initially announced the opening of the crossing for the passage of aid, but they quickly backtracked on the implementation, citing what they described as "logistical difficulties" that prevent the resumption of movement, which sparked widespread criticism and doubts about the seriousness of the commitment to the opening decision.

An Israeli security source stated that the Rafah border crossing between the Gaza Strip and Egypt will not be reopened for the movement of individuals today, Wednesday, claiming that the reason is "logistical reasons," as the Hebrew newspaper "Yedioth Ahronoth" quoted the source, who was not named, saying that "the Rafah crossing will not open today, and the date of its opening is unknown."

He added, "This is not logistically possible; we need to go down to the area to verify and send a team, and this takes time," and "it is expected that they will decide tomorrow also to keep the crossing closed."

The United Nations and relief organizations have called for the reopening of the crossing at a time when Gaza is facing a severe humanitarian crisis following the two-year war that ensued after Hamas's attack on the Israeli state on October 7, 2023, where it was announced at the end of August that famine had been declared in Gaza.

It was mentioned that the reopening of the Rafah crossing, decided by the "political leadership," comes after Hamas handed over the remains of four other hostages late Tuesday under a ceasefire agreement in the sector that came into effect on Friday.

Under the agreement, in which U.S. President Donald Trump played a mediating role, it was scheduled for Hamas to hand over all hostages, both living and deceased, within 72 hours of the ceasefire coming into effect.

While all twenty living hostages were released on time, Israel received only the remains of eight out of 28 hostages who had died by Tuesday evening.

Israeli far-right National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir threatened on Tuesday to cut off aid supplies to Gaza if Hamas did not return the remains of the soldiers from the sector.

The Israeli Broadcasting Authority reported that the decision to reopen the Rafah crossing to allow the passage of aid was also made after Israel was informed of Hamas's intention to return the remains of four other hostages on Wednesday, a step that the movement has not yet confirmed.

Sources in the Islamic Resistance Movement Hamas revealed on Tuesday the reasons for the delay in finding the remaining bodies of the Israeli prisoners in the Gaza Strip, following the movement's delivery of 8 bodies in two batches through the International Committee of the Red Cross.

The British website "Middle East Eye" quoted a source in Hamas as saying that "the indiscriminate destruction practiced by the Israeli occupation army on Gaza is behind the delay in finding the bodies of the prisoners," noting that "with 10,000 Palestinians under the rubble, finding the bodies of the prisoners requires time and effort."

The same source held the Israeli occupation responsible for the delay in determining the location of the bodies of the missing prisoners in Gaza and returning them.

The Israeli Broadcasting Authority stated that the "political level" decided to reopen the Rafah border crossing between Gaza and Egypt on Wednesday morning and to allow humanitarian aid into Gaza following Hamas's delivery of the bodies of 4 captives on Tuesday evening.

On Tuesday evening, Channel 13 reported that Israel decided not to reopen the Rafah border crossing between Gaza and Egypt and to reduce the entry of humanitarian aid, claiming that Hamas had not delivered the remains of the remaining prisoners.

However, the Israeli Broadcasting Authority stated that "the political level in Israel decided this morning (Wednesday) to reopen the Rafah crossing and continue the entry of humanitarian aid into the Gaza Strip."

It added: This decision came after Hamas delivered the bodies of four Israeli hostages last night, amid expectations of delivering four more in the coming hours, according to a diplomat and an informed source.

There are still the bodies of 20 Israeli captives in the Gaza Strip, according to estimates from Tel Aviv, while the number of bodies received since Monday has reached 8.

According to U.S. President Donald Trump's plan to stop the Gaza war, the crossing was scheduled to reopen on Wednesday after the remains were fully delivered to Israel, noting that the agreement indicated difficulties in recovering the remains due to issues related to excavation mechanisms and technical capabilities.

On Monday, Hamas released the twenty living Israeli prisoners and delivered the bodies of 4, stating that it needed time to retrieve the bodies of 24 others, before delivering 4 more bodies on Tuesday evening.

Sources reported this morning, Wednesday, that 600 trucks loaded with humanitarian aid are scheduled to enter the Gaza Strip, coinciding with the reopening of the Rafah border crossing today.

This development comes as an important practical step in the implementation of the ceasefire agreement, which stipulates the immediate and intensive delivery of aid.

The entry of this massive convoy of aid is linked to the decision to reopen the Rafah crossing, which was reached after Hamas handed over the bodies of four detainees yesterday evening, Tuesday.

Field sources reported on Wednesday morning that Israeli forces are conducting artillery shelling and firing heavily on the Shuja'iyya neighborhood and the eastern areas of Gaza City.

This military escalation comes at a time when a ceasefire is supposed to be in effect according to the recent agreement between the parties.

Field reports indicate that this military activity represents a clear escalation given the current fragility of the ceasefire.

The United Nations confirmed that it received a notification from the Israeli occupation authorities indicating their intention to reduce the number of aid trucks scheduled to enter the Gaza Strip by half, from about 600 trucks that Israel had pledged to allow through after the ceasefire.

UN Deputy Spokesperson Farhan Haq stated at a press conference held yesterday evening, Tuesday, that the Israeli government's Coordinator of Government Activities in the Territories informed the organization in an official letter of its decision to reduce the number of trucks heading to Gaza, citing reasons related to the return of bodies.

Haq added: "We are aware of what was mentioned in the letter from the Israeli government's Coordinator of Government Activities in the Territories," noting that the UN is striving to deliver as much humanitarian aid as possible to Gaza.

He emphasized that the international organization calls on all parties to adhere to their commitments, including the return of the bodies of deceased prisoners, and to implement the remaining terms of the ceasefire agreement, foremost among them ensuring the flow of humanitarian aid to civilians in the sector.

The Hebrew broadcasting authority reported early this Wednesday morning that the "political level" in the occupying entity has decided to reopen the Rafah crossing this morning, with the aim of allowing humanitarian aid into the Gaza Strip.

This decision comes as a direct subsequent step after Hamas delivered the bodies of four detainees yesterday evening, Tuesday.

The report clarified that the decision made by the "political level" in the occupying government's entails reopening the Rafah crossing this Wednesday morning, to allow the commencement of humanitarian aid into the Gaza Strip.

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer said yesterday, Tuesday, that Britain could play a leading role in helping to disarm the Islamic Resistance Movement (Hamas) in the Gaza Strip, drawing on its experience in encouraging armed groups in Northern Ireland to lay down their arms.

Starmer mentioned in Parliament that disarming the region would be vital for the continuation of the ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, which is the first phase of a framework established by U.S. President Donald Trump consisting of 20 points for achieving peace in the Palestinian territory.

Jonathan Powell, Starmer's national security adviser, was the mastermind behind the so-called Good Friday Agreement of 1998, which largely ended three decades of sectarian violence in Northern Ireland, as he worked alongside former Prime Minister Tony Blair, who is a candidate to play a role in Gaza.

Three European diplomats also stated that the Northern Ireland case is being cited as a potential future model for Gaza, although they noted the absence of a comprehensive plan.

Starmer said, "Of course, this will be difficult, but it is vital. It was difficult in Northern Ireland regarding the Irish Republican Army, but it was essential."

He added, "That is why we said we are ready to assist in the disarmament process based on our experience in Northern Ireland. I will not pretend that this is easy, but it is extremely important."

The Irish Republican Army, a predominantly Catholic group seeking to unify Ireland, announced in 2005 that it would officially end its armed struggle.

It refused to publicly dispose of its weapons but agreed to the presence of independent monitors who reported three months later that it had decommissioned its arms.

The peace agreement in Northern Ireland addressed everything from police reform to the early release of paramilitary prisoners, disarmament of paramilitary groups, and "normalizing" security arrangements.

However, the Irish Republican Army never governed Northern Ireland, unlike Hamas, which has ruled the Gaza Strip since 2007 and oversees all aspects of public life.

Jonathan Powell was in Egypt last Monday to attend an international summit regarding Gaza alongside Starmer.

The BBC reported that he was there last week while finalizing negotiations.

Steve Witkoff, Trump's envoy, thanked Powell last Monday in a post on X for his "remarkable contributions and tireless efforts."

In Gaza, Israeli officials stated that any final settlement must include the permanent disarmament of Hamas.

Trump also said he would establish a "Peace Council" to oversee governance in Gaza.

He initially suggested that Blair join this council, but said last Sunday that he needed to know if that was "an acceptable option for everyone."

Yesterday, Tuesday, Trump confirmed in statements to reporters at the White House that Hamas would relinquish its weapons and that it had informed him of this, adding: if it does not, "we will take care of that."

He reiterated that the disarmament of Hamas would happen quickly and possibly violently, as he put it.

Hamas has repeatedly emphasized through several of its leaders that the resistance's weapons are "off the table" and that it is only prepared to hand over its arms to the upcoming Palestinian state.

Sources within the Islamic Resistance Movement Hamas revealed on Tuesday the reasons for the delay in finding the remaining bodies of Israeli prisoners in the Gaza Strip, following the movement's delivery of 8 bodies in two batches through the International Committee of the Red Cross.

The British website "Middle East Eye" quoted a source in Hamas stating that "the indiscriminate destruction carried out by the Israeli occupation army in Gaza is behind the delay in finding the bodies of the prisoners," noting that "with 10,000 Palestinians under the rubble, finding the bodies of the prisoners requires time and effort."

The same source held the Israeli occupation responsible for the delay in determining the location of the missing prisoners' bodies in Gaza and returning them.

This came after Israeli officials stated that the Rafah border crossing between Gaza and Egypt would remain closed on Wednesday, amid accusations that Hamas was retaining the bodies of prisoners it had pledged to return as part of a peace agreement mediated by the United States that halted the two-year war.

However, the Hamas source told "Middle East Eye" that its negotiators clearly confirmed during the talks that the presence of Israeli forces, Israeli attacks, and the genocide and indiscriminate destruction that caused widespread devastation would complicate the task of locating the bodies of the deceased prisoners, requiring more time and effort.

The source said: "They made it clear during the negotiations that it would require significant time and effort after the withdrawal of Israeli forces to gather information about the bodies."

The signed agreement included a clear clause in this regard, with clause 5 stating: "Establishing a mechanism for exchanging information between the two sides, through intermediaries and the International Committee of the Red Cross, to exchange intelligence regarding any deceased prisoner not recovered within 72 hours or the remains of Gaza residents held by Tel Aviv."

The site continued: "This mechanism includes the complete and safe extraction of all Israeli prisoners' remains and their release, and Hamas will make every effort to ensure that these commitments are fulfilled as soon as possible."

Hamas had released on Monday 20 living prisoners who had been held for more than two years, in addition to the bodies of four deceased prisoners, and on Tuesday four additional bodies were delivered, leaving about 20 Israeli bodies remaining, according to estimates from the occupation army.