Hamas request return for Yahya Sinwar’s body during ceasefire talks

DOHA: In ongoing Gaza ceasefire talks mediated by international parties, Hamas requested Israel to return the body of Yahya Sinwar, a former slain leader of the group.

Reports indicate that Israel has not accepted the demand, complicating discussions aimed at reaching a ceasefire agreement, 15 months into the siege of Gaza by Israel.

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As part of the negotiations, Hamas expressed its willingness to release 33 Israeli hostages if a ceasefire is established. Negotiators in Doha are reportedly working on a phased approach, with the initial release of hostages expected during the first phase of a potential ceasefire.

Israeli officials stated that the majority of the 33 hostages were alive, raising hope for their return. The bodies of hostages who died during the initial 42-day ceasefire period is also expected to be included in the negotiations.

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Current reports suggest that Hamas and its allies are holding a total of 94 hostages taken from Israel.