Part 8/16:
This exchange marks the end of the first phase of an agreed ceasefire that initially proposed the release of nearly 2,000 Palestinian prisoners in return for the bodies of Israeli hostages. The next phase aims to free remaining captives and could involve broader negotiations on ending hostilities. The White House’s Middle East envoy, Steve Witkoff, is expected to visit soon to push forward this next stage, which is scheduled to begin on March 1.
Despite these accords, deep divisions persist. Key issues include Hamas's military capabilities, Israel's security demands, and the future governance of Gaza—topics that threaten to prolong or derail progress toward peace.