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First Seven Hostages Freed as Gaza Ceasefire, Prisoner Swap Begin

The U.S.-brokered truce begins with a phased exchange that links hostage returns to a large prisoner release.

Overview

  • Israeli forces confirmed they have taken custody of seven hostages transferred by Hamas to the Red Cross and are moving them to the Re’im reception point for medical checks and reunions.
  • The International Committee of the Red Cross is facilitating the transfers, and additional living captives are expected to be handed over later today.
  • Israel is preparing to release roughly 1,966 Palestinian detainees once hostages are confirmed on Israeli soil, with officials reporting buses have already departed prisons.
  • President Donald Trump arrived in Israel, plans to address the Knesset, and will then co-chair a summit in Sharm el-Sheikh focused on consolidating the agreement.
  • Further steps are expected to include the release of about 13 more living hostages and the return of roughly 26–28 sets of remains, with final lists and timelines still being finalized.