Hamas has released seven Israeli hostages to the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) in the Gaza Strip as part of the initial stage of a ceasefire and prisoner-exchange agreement with Israel, an official familiar with the process confirmed on Sunday, according to Reuters.
The handover took place under the supervision of the ICRC, which is acting as a neutral intermediary to ensure the safe transfer of detainees between both sides. The released hostages are expected to be taken into Israel for medical evaluation and reunification with their families after months in captivity.
This exchange marks the first step of the agreed truce, under which Hamas is to free a number of Israeli hostages in phases, while Israel will release hundreds of Palestinian prisoners, including women and minors, from its detention facilities.
According to officials, the ceasefire deal aims to provide temporary relief from the ongoing hostilities in Gaza and create space for humanitarian aid deliveries to reach civilians who have been enduring severe shortages of food, water, and medical supplies.
Both sides have expressed cautious optimism but warned that the continuation of the ceasefire will depend on strict adherence to the agreed terms. Israeli security agencies are closely monitoring the implementation of the deal, while mediators from Qatar and Egypt are said to be facilitating communication between the parties to prevent any breakdown in the fragile truce.
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