Hamas releases first hostages – individuals detained by Israel are seated in buses

The Israeli army has confirmed that the first seven hostages released by Hamas have crossed the border into Israel. They were handed over to Hamas by the Red Cross. Further releases are expected – Hamas is to hand over a total of 20 living hostages and the bodies of 28 deceased hostages.

In return, Israel is to release 250 Palestinian prisoners, 1,700 other detainees, and the bodies of 360 fighters. On Monday morning, a representative involved in the exchange confirmed that all 1,966 Palestinian prisoners had boarded the buses.

The ceasefire between Israel and Hamas has been in effect since Friday and is the result of diplomatic efforts by the US, Egypt, Qatar, and Turkey. Donald Trump declared during his trip to Israel that the war in the Gaza Strip was over.

Despite the optimism and statements by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu about a “new beginning,” the Gaza Strip is facing a humanitarian crisis. There is a large amount of unexploded ordnance in the region. It is estimated that around 300,000 tents are needed to accommodate 1.5 million displaced Palestinians.

Trump will also speak in the Israeli parliament and then travel on to a peace summit in Egypt.

(reuters, max)