Hamas released all 20 living Israeli hostages on Monday as part of a ceasefire agreement. The release took place in two phases and was overseen by the International Committee of the Red Cross. In the second phase, 13 hostages were transferred to Khan Younis in southern Gaza. Masked Hamas members escorted the hostages to Red Cross teams. The exchange signals progress toward ending two years of conflict.
At the same time, Israel began releasing Palestinian prisoners from its jails. According to reports, 38 buses carrying freed prisoners entered Gaza. This is the start of a larger release of 2,000 prisoners agreed under the peace deal. Crowds welcomed the buses in Gaza with visible celebrations. Short welcome ceremonies were held near the hospitals and checkpoints.
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In Israel, families and supporters gathered near the Re’im military base where the hostages arrived. Many waved Israeli flags and held posters with photos of captives. Hundreds also gathered at Tel Aviv’s “Hostage Square” to celebrate the return. Emotions ran high as families prepared to reunite with their loved ones. Medical checks will follow before the hostages return home.
Meanwhile, masked and armed Hamas members gathered at Nasser Hospital in southern Gaza. They stood near ambulances and set up chairs for a brief reception. The area was secured as both hostages and freed Palestinian prisoners arrived. Footage showed calm and organized handovers by both sides. The scenes marked a rare moment of coordination between bitter enemies.
Read more: 20 Israeli Hostages Freed in Significant Prisoner Exchange
US President Donald Trump, who brokered the deal, called the war “over” while speaking aboard Air Force One. He said the region would now return to normal. Trump will address Israel’s parliament and receive the country’s top civilian honor later this year. The agreement ends a war that drew in Iran, Lebanon, and Yemen, and shifted power in the Middle East. Leaders now hope the deal brings lasting peace to the region.