The long-awaited release of Israeli hostages in Gaza has officially begun, with the first group of seven handed over by Hamas to the International Red Cross.
The released hostages include Eitan Mor, Gali and Ziv Berman, Matan Angrest, Omri Miran, Guy Gilboa-Dalal, and Alon Ohel, all from northern Gaza. A second group of 13 hostages is expected to follow shortly.
Israel confirmed that this transfer represents a significant step under a US-backed ceasefire agreement between Hamas and Israel. The broader deal also outlines the release of thousands of Palestinian prisoners held in Israel and the delivery of humanitarian aid to Gaza, which continues to face severe food shortages.
According to officials involved, the Red Cross received the first group at the designated collection point in northern Gaza.
This development comes after two years of intense conflict and marks the initial phase of US President Donald Trump’s 20-point peace plan, finalized last week through indirect talks in Egypt, with Qatar and Turkey serving as mediators. The release is being seen as a critical test of the ceasefire arrangement and a step toward easing tensions in the region.
Comments are closed.