Hamas finally handed over to Israel its long-awaited list of hostages slated to be released over the next five weeks, claiming that 18 remain alive while 8 have perished. Authorities have begun preparing families for deeply concerning news about their loved ones' fate.
The delayed list, arriving almost 24 hours late, details the condition of hostages scheduled for release in the ongoing ceasefire's first phase, which will spread over several weeks.
Initial Israeli assessments suggested that of the 33 hostages slated for release in phase one, 25 were alive, including those who have been handed over so far since the ceasefire began in late January. However, Hamas' updated list reveals a slightly different count: 26 of the 33 survived. Following the return of seven female captives during the first two weeks of the deal, Israel now anticipates the return of 18 more living hostages, while facing the tragic task of recovering 8 deceased captives.
The Prime Minister's Office confirmed that the IDF has briefed families on Hamas' list detailing the hostages' status. Officials also informed families that the release on Thursday will include the release of Arbel Yehoud (29), Agam Berger (20), and another hostage, while three elderly men are set for release on Saturday.
Israeli authorities believe Keith Samuel Siegel (65) will be the additional hostage released on Thursday. Security officials are now conducting thorough verification processes and cross-referencing to confirm the list's authenticity.
