GAZA —In a significant development, Israel announced that Hamas has handed over the first seven hostages to the Red Cross as part of the Gaza ceasefire.
The hostages are the first to be released as part of a breakthrough ceasefire after two years of war between Israel and Hamas in the devastated Gaza Strip.
The Israeli military confirmed the hostages were in their custody. There was no immediate word on their condition. Hamas has said 20 living hostages will be exchanged for over 1,900 Palestinian prisoners held by Israel.
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This exchange is a component of the U.S.-brokered peace plan aimed at easing tensions in the region.
Families and friends of hostages broke out into wild cheers as Israeli television channels announced that the hostages were in the hands of the Red Cross. Tens of thousands of Israelis were watching the transfers at public screenings across the country, with a major event being held in Tel Aviv.
Palestinians awaited the release of hundreds of prisoners held by Israel. U.S. President Donald Trump was arriving in the region along with other leaders to discuss the U.S.-proposed deal and postwar plans. A surge of humanitarian aid was expected into famine-stricken Gaza, where hundreds of thousands of people have been left homeless.
While major questions remain about the future of Hamas and Gaza, the exchange of hostages and prisoners marked a key step toward ending the deadliest war ever between Israel and the militant group.
In Israel, people have gathered at Hostage Square, eagerly awaiting the return of the hostages. Meanwhile, Jerusalem’s Western Wall has seen a steady flow of visitors coming to pray throughout the weekend.
President Trump, who has played a pivotal role in brokering the ceasefire between Hamas and Israel, departed Washington, D.C. Sunday afternoon.He is expected to arrive in Israel to address the Israeli parliament and meet with the families of the hostages.
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