Thu Feb 27 13:32:59 UTC 2025: ## Gaza Prisoner Exchange Concludes, Ceasefire Future Uncertain
**GAZA CITY/JERUSALEM** – A crucial prisoner and body exchange between Hamas and Israel, marking the completion of the first phase of a Gaza ceasefire, has concluded. However, the future of the fragile truce remains uncertain as the initial agreement expires on March 1st. Concerns are growing that Israel may resume hostilities if a second phase agreement isn’t reached by that deadline. The exchange, a key element of the initial ceasefire, involved the release of both Palestinian prisoners held by Israel and the bodies of Israeli soldiers and civilians held by Hamas. Negotiations for a second phase, which would likely involve further prisoner releases and potentially long-term security arrangements, are ongoing but have yet to yield a breakthrough. The looming deadline is raising tensions on both sides, prompting fears of a renewed conflict.
First Piper 