Hamas says will release bodies of four dead hostages Thursday, six living ones this weekend

Hamas announced Tuesday that it would release the dead bodies of four hostages Thursday and six living ones on Saturday as part of its ceasefire deal with Israel.

Two of the dead hostages reportedly include Kfir Bibas and Ariel Bibas, who were one and four years old when they were taken hostage, according to CNN.

The children's mother, Yarden Bibas, was released Feb. 1.

As of now, Israel has not confirmed the deaths of the two children, but has confirmed that the hostages will be returning. 

"Understandings have been reached in the Cairo negotiations according to which six living first-stage hostages will be released on Saturday," according to the X account the Prime Minister of Israel.

"This Thursday, four deceased hostages will be returned to Israel. Pursuant to the agreement, four additional deceased hostages are due to be returned to Israel next week," the post also reads.

Israel is expected to release Palestinian prisoners in exchange for the hostages. The Israel-Hamas began Oct. 7, 2023 when Hamas launched an attack on Israel and killed 1,200 people.