Hamas says it will release the next group of Israeli hostages as planned. That would pave the way toward resolving a major dispute that threatened the ceasefire in the Gaza Strip. The militant group said Egyptian and Qatari mediators have affirmed that they will work to “remove all hurdles.” Hamas said it would implement the ceasefire deal. Thursday's statement indicated three more Israeli hostages would be freed Saturday. There was no immediate comment from Israel on Hamas’ announcement.
