Hamas insists on 'new mechanism' for prisoner exchange to hold Israel accountable

Hamas announced on Wednesday that it has not yet been presented with any proposal for the second phase of the ceasefire, contradicting claims from Israeli officials.

The group also stated that the timeline for a prisoner exchange involving Palestinian detainees and the bodies of Israeli captives would be determined when conditions were appropriate.

The group emphasised that any such exchange would occur “through a new mechanism” to ensure Israel upholds its commitments.

Meanwhile, Israel’s prime minister’s office confirmed an agreement had been reached with mediators for the return of four Israeli bodies from Gaza. When pressed for details, a spokesperson simply responded, “Yes,” offering no further clarification.