Hamas refuses to release 12 of the 34 planned hostages, offering instead the bodies of 12 deceased, amid stalled negotiation efforts with Israel. Prime Minister Netanyahu has rejected this offer, while Hamas has increased their demand for the release of security prisoners in exchange for hostages. Reports indicate that Hamas has only agreed to free sick, children, and elderly hostages in return for 250 prisoners. Despite promises, the identities of the 22 hostages earmarked for release remain undisclosed, though Hamas assured that two Russian citizens would be freed. The impasse has spurred protests in Israel, highlighting the ongoing tension and complexity of the situation following the October 2023 attack.