Israel receives the remains of several hostages

Israel receives the remains of several hostages

Israel is preparing to receive the remains of an unknown number of hostages from Gaza on Thursday, a source familiar with the matter told CNN.

No identities released

The identities of the hostages have not yet been revealed. This is the first handover of deceased hostages since the entry into force of the ceasefire agreement with Hamas in January. The Israeli military leadership had already done so Remains of several hostages recovered from Gaza.

Uncertainty about the ceasefire

The return of the remains of the hostages comes at a time when the status of the ceasefire appears questionable, even after release of three more hostages on Saturday. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed, that he will discuss the second phase of the agreement with his political security cabinet on Monday.

Next hostage taking and exchange

Under the terms of the original ceasefire and hostage exchange agreement, the next exchange is scheduled for February 22, when three hostages are scheduled to be released.

This story is evolving and will be updated.