Hamas frees the first two of six Israeli hostages to be released in the latest exchange

They were the last of the living hostages slated for release in the current phase of the deal. A total of 33 Israelis — including the remains of eight who died or were killed in captivity — are expected to be handed over in exchange for almost 2,000 Palestinian prisoners held by Israel. Five Thai citizens abducted while working in Israel on the day of the attack were freed last month separately.

Five of the hostages were released Saturday in staged ceremonies that both Israel and the Red Cross have condemned.

It remains unclear if the sides will continue into a second stage of the ceasefire meant to end the war and bring home all remaining hostages.