Gaza Ceasefire Delayed as Israel and Hamas Exchange Prisoners

A 42-day truce agreement begins hours late, with initial hostage and prisoner releases planned for today.

The ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, originally scheduled for 7:30 AM MEZ, was delayed due to Hamas failing to provide a list of hostages for release on time.
Israel and Hamas have agreed to a 42-day truce, during which 33 Israeli hostages will be exchanged for 1,904 Palestinian prisoners.
The humanitarian agreement includes provisions to improve food supplies in Gaza, where 90% of residents face hunger, and requires Israeli forces to withdraw from civilian areas.
The first phase of the deal involves releasing three Israeli women hostages and approximately 90 Palestinian prisoners today, though the timeline remains uncertain due to the delay.
Israeli Police Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir resigned in protest against the agreement, but the governing coalition retains a parliamentary majority.