After more than two years of war, seven Israeli hostages have been released from Gaza in what officials are calling a major breakthrough in the Israel-Hamas ceasefire deal.
The hostages, freed early Monday morning, were handed over to the International Committee of the Red Cross before being transferred into Israeli territory for medical checks and reunification with their families.
According to Israeli military and medical sources, out of the 48 Israelis kidnapped since the conflict began, 20 remain alive, while 28 have died in captivity.
As part of the agreement, Israeli ministers have approved the release of 1,718 Palestinian prisoners from detention facilities across the country. The release of the bodies of 28 deceased Israeli hostages is expected to follow.
According to the Guardian new, In Tel Aviv, an estimated 65,000 people gathered at Hostages Square to celebrate the news. Cheers erupted as it was announced that the first seven hostages had been handed over to the Red Cross.
Moments later, the crowd roared again as Air Force One flew overhead, carrying U.S. President Donald Trump, who is widely credited for mediating the ceasefire and securing the release.
Trump, who is due to address Israel’s parliament, the Knesset, later today, declared before boarding his flight that “the war in Gaza is over.”
He is also expected to meet with the families of the hostages and some of those recently freed.
The exchange marks the most significant development since the conflict began more than 780 days ago, offering a rare glimpse of relief after years of violence and uncertainty.