The fragile truce in Gaza has led to the release of hostages from the coastal city, but concerns are growing that talks on a second phase of the deal are stalled. As of Saturday, roughly 60 hostages remain in captivity, with their fates hanging in the balance.
Relatives of hostages say they need assurances that another round of releases will happen soon. A rally in Tel Aviv’s Hostage Square marked the 500th day since Israel was attacked on October 7, 2023, and thousands paid tribute to those still being held captive.
The first phase of the deal took effect in January but is set to expire in less than two weeks. Negotiations on a second phase have been delayed, leaving dozens of captives uncertain about their future.
Israeli officials say six living hostages will be released next Saturday, instead of three as planned, and four more bodies will be returned next week. However, relatives are anxious that Hamas’s failure to return the remains of Shiri Bibas raises questions about whether talks on a second phase will proceed.
If negotiations fail, roughly 60 hostages are likely to remain in Gaza, with those who are alive facing increased danger if fighting resumes. Former captives urge the Israeli government not to let the deal fall apart, saying there is no time to spare for those still being held captive.
Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/02/21/world/middleeast/israel-gaza-hostages.html