Hamas militants have released the bodies of four more hostages from the Gaza Strip more than 16 months after they were taken captive

Hamas handed over the bodies on Thursday of Israeli infant Kfir Bibas and his four-year-old brother Ariel, the two youngest captives taken by Hamas in their October 7, 2023 attack and among the most potent symbols of the trauma inflicted that day.

Israel and Hamas are behind on the progression of their ceasefire deal as the release of hostages and return of remains continues.