Israel has stated that eight of the 26 remaining hostages, who were expected to be released by Hamas during the first phase of the Gaza ceasefire agreement, are dead.
Government spokesperson David Mencer told journalists that Israel had received a list from the Palestinian armed group overnight, providing information about the status of the hostages.
“The list from Hamas matches Israeli intelligence, so I can share with you that… eight have been killed by Hamas,” he said, according to BBC.
“Families have been informed about the status of their relatives.”
Seven women have already been released alive in exchange for more than 290 Palestinian prisoners held in Israeli jails since the ceasefire began on January 19.
