TEL AVIV: The first group of Israeli hostages held by Hamas for more than two years has been released. According to reports, seven people were handed over to the Red Cross. Officials said their health condition is satisfactory. The remaining 13 hostages are expected to be freed later today. Hamas had earlier announced that 20 hostages would be released today. The handover took place in Khan Yunis and Netzarim. Hamas will also return the bodies of hostages who died during the war through the Red Cross.

It was agreed that there would be no public ceremonies during the release. Israel, in return, will free 250 Palestinian prisoners. The families and friends of the hostages are celebrating the release with great joy. The release became possible following a ceasefire agreement brokered by former U.S. President Donald Trump. Those freed include Eitan Mor, Gali, Ziv Berman, Matan Angrest, Omri Miran, Guy Gilboa-Dalal, and Alon Ohel, who had been held by Hamas in northern Gaza.

The hostages were captured during Hamas's cross-border attack on Israel on October 7, 2023. Besides the United States, Egypt and Qatar also played key roles in mediating the deal for their release. Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump announced that the war in Gaza has officially ended. He claimed this was the eighth war he had helped to end. Trump said he had played an important role in resolving many long-standing global conflicts.

“This is the eighth war I have ended. I hear there’s still a conflict between Pakistan and Afghanistan. They may have to wait until I return. I’m working on something else right now because ending wars is something I’m very good at,” Trump told the media.