Israel and Hamas Begin Ceasefire; Hamas Releases Three Israeli Hostages after 471 Days, Israel Frees 90 Palestinian Prisoners

Jan 20, 2025, 01:25 AM

A ceasefire between Israel and Hamas has begun in Gaza after a delay, as Hamas released the names of three Israeli female hostages to be freed. The first three hostages, who were held for 471 days, have been released by Hamas and have arrived in Israel, reuniting with their mothers in tearful reunions. They are the first of 33 hostages expected to be freed during the initial phase of the deal. In exchange, Israel has released 90 Palestinian prisoners, all women and minors. This exchange marks the start of a long-awaited truce aimed at ending over 15 months of war between Israel and Hamas, with a gradual release of hostages and prisoners expected over the next several weeks.