Hamas releases first seven Israeli hostages under peace plan

Hamas has released the first group of surviving Israeli hostages captured in October, 2023, marking a major breakthrough in efforts to end two years of brutal warfare in Gaza.

The transfer, mediated by the Red Cross, comes as part of a US-backed ceasefire initiative driven by President Donald Trump.

Crowds gathered in Tel Aviv’s Hostage Square erupted in celebration as the Israeli military confirmed the return of seven hostages: Guy Gilboa Dalal, Eitan Mor, Matan Angrest, Alon Ohel, Gali and Ziv Berman, and Omri Miran.

“We’ve been waiting 738 days to say this: Welcome home,” the Israeli Foreign Ministry announced on social media platform X.

Viki Cohen, whose son Nimrod is still among the missing, shared her emotional anticipation while en route to Reim military base, where the released hostages are being received. “I am so excited. I am full of happiness. It’s hard to imagine how I feel this moment. I didn’t sleep all night,” she said.

Meanwhile in Gaza, masked and armed members of Hamas’ military wing appeared at Nasser Hospital, where a platform and chairs had been arranged for a homecoming ceremony welcoming freed Palestinian prisoners.

The deal is expected to include the return of all 20 surviving Israeli hostages, the remains of 26 confirmed dead, and two individuals whose status remains unclear. In exchange, Israel is to release nearly 2,000 Palestinian prisoners and detainees.

This prisoner exchange is a central element of the initial phase of the ceasefire agreement brokered last week in Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt. World leaders, including Trump, are expected to convene there later Monday to chart next steps toward a permanent resolution.