Hamas Releases Israeli Hostages as Trump Arrives in Israel
Israel's military confirmed the release of the first seven out of 20 surviving Israeli hostages by Hamas, via the Red Cross, in Gaza.
Crowds gathered in Tel Aviv's Hostages Square to welcome the news. The release is a crucial step in ending the two-year conflict in Gaza, as part of a ceasefire deal backed by US President Donald Trump, who arrived in Israel to address the parliament.
It's hard to imagine how I feel this moment. I didn’t sleep all night
said Viki Cohen, mother of hostage Nimrod Cohen, as she traveled to an Israeli military camp where the hostages will be transferred.
- 13 remaining confirmed living hostages are expected to be released.
- Bodies of 26 dead hostages and 2 unknown will also be released.
- Nearly 2,000 Palestinian detainees and convicted prisoners will be released.
Author's summary: Trump lands in Israel as Hamas begins releasing hostages.