Israeli hostages killed by Hamas: Government confirm eight Israelis set for release in first phase are dead

Israel has confirmed that eight hostages who were due to be released in the first phase of the ceasefire agreement have been confirmed dead, killed by Hamas.

Hamas shared a list with Israel over the weekend confirming names and the status of Israeli hostages that were to be released after the ceasefire commenced on January 19.

“The list from Hamas matches Israel’s intelligence, so I can share with you that eight have been killed by Hamas,” Israeli Government spokesman David Mencer said, without identifying the victims.

“The families have been informed of the situation of their relatives.”

Israel believes Hamas is holding around 80 hostages, with just over 50 of those believed to be alive. So far seven female Israeli hostages have been released by Hamas.

The confirmation of death comes as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu secured the early release of additional hostages on Sunday, with six people set to be returned across Thursday and Saturday.

The release, which will see civilian Arbel Yehud, soldier Adam Berger and an additional hostage released, will now include three additional hostages after Hamas “backtracked”, bringing forward additional releases.

Mr Netanyahu’s office said: ”Following the conducting of vigorous and determined negotiations led by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Hamas has backtracked and will carry out an additional phase of releasing hostages this Thursday.”

The scheduled release of Ms Yehud comes after the Palestinian Islamic Jihad group posted a video on social media late on Monday showing proof of life.

It is believed Ms Yehud is reading from a supplied script in the video.