Israel and Hamas begin negotiations for next phase of Gaza ceasefire agreement

The first phase of the ceasefire in Gaza between Israel and Hamas comes to a close on Saturday, following the final swap of prisoners and hostages.

Efforts are underway to pave the path to a second phase, which looks uncertain.

Lee Eun-jin has the latest.

The final planned exchange of the Gaza ceasefire's first phase occurred overnight on Thursday, after days of fears over the agreement collapsing and ahead of its expiration on Saturday.

Hamas released the remains of four hostages to the Red Cross without a public ceremony.

Their identities have been confirmed through forensic examinations and by the Hostages and Missing Families Forum.

This handover made possible the delayed release of over 600 Palestinian prisoners and detainees.

Meanwhile, according to the Egyptian government, officials from Israel, Qatar, and the United States began negotiations on the second phase of the ceasefire on Thursday, in Cairo.

Key objectives include ending the war, securing the release of all remaining Israeli hostages, and ensuring the complete withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza.

According to Israel, there are 59 remaining hostages, of which 24 are still believed to be alive.

The return of the deceased would be discussed as part of the third and final phase of the ceasefire agreement.

Egypt also stated that the mediators are discussing ways to enhance the delivery of humanitarian aid to the Gaza Strip.

The first phase which has paused fighting in Gaza is set to officially conclude on Saturday.

Even with the negotiations for phase two back on track, the future of Gaza remains uncertain.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has vowed to return all hostages but also to destroy Hamas, which remains in control of Gaza.

And U.S. President Donald Trump has endorsed both goals.

But it is unclear how Israel would destroy Hamas without resuming the war, and without a lasting ceasefire, Hamas is unlikely to release any of the remaining hostages, who serve as their greatest bargaining chips.

According to Israeli reports, Netanyahu is seeking to extend the first phase rather than advance to the second stage, and secure the freedom of more hostages.

Lee Eunjin, Arirang News.