Hamas released six more hostages in Gaza as part of a ceasefire deal, including four kidnapped during the October 7 attack on Israel and two Israeli men held since 2014 and 2015.

In exchange, 602 Palestinian prisoners will be freed later Saturday, including 50 serving life sentences.

This marks the final hostage release in the deal’s first phase, with negotiations ongoing for the next stage set to begin March 1.

Israel expects the bodies of four more hostages to be returned next week.

Around 59 hostages remain in Gaza, about half believed to be alive, the BBC has reported.

Families continue urging for all captives to be freed.

Written by B.C. Begley