GAZA: Hamas has handed over all 20 surviving Israeli hostages to Red Cross representatives in Gaza, marking the end of more than two years of captivity, AFP reported, citing Israel’s public broadcaster. The releases took place in two phases, with the final group of 13 hostages transferred in Khan Younis, southern Gaza. The first group of seven had been freed earlier in the day.
The freed hostages were escorted by Israeli forces across the border into Israel. Live footage broadcast by Al Jazeera and Israel’s public broadcaster showed buses carrying the freed hostages and Palestinian detainees amid scenes of celebration and relief.
Mass Prisoner Releases and Trump’s Regional Diplomacy
As part of the first phase of the U.S.-brokered ceasefire deal, Israel has also begun releasing 1,718 Palestinian detainees held without charge since October 7, 2023. Another 250 prisoners serving life sentences are also being freed. Buses carrying released prisoners were seen leaving Negev and Ofer prisons toward Gaza and Ramallah.
Crowds gathered at Nasser Hospital in Khan Younis and in Ramallah’s main square to welcome them, with families and medical staff waiting through the night.
Meanwhile, U.S. President Donald Trump arrived in Jerusalem and met with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at Israel’s parliament before addressing the Knesset. He is expected to travel to Egypt later today for a high-profile peace summit on Gaza’s future, attended by leaders from over 20 nations.
