Khan Younis, 27 Feb. (LaPresse/AP) – Hamas has said it is ready to negotiate the next phase of the ceasefire in the Gaza Strip, after the exchange in which it handed over the remains of four hostages in exchange for the release of over 600 Palestinian prisoners held by Israel. It was the last exchange agreed between the two sides as part of the truce that is due to end this weekend. Negotiations for a second phase, in which Hamas would release dozens of remaining hostages in exchange for other prisoners and a lasting ceasefire, have not yet begun. Hamas has declared that the ‘only way’ for Israel to guarantee the release of the remaining hostages is through negotiations and respect for the agreement. The organisation has warned that any attempt to retract the truce ‘will only lead to more suffering’ for the prisoners and their families.
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