Hamas Releases 7 Israeli Hostages, 13 More to Be Freed Soon; Trump Departs for Israel

Tel Aviv (The Uttam Hindu): A major breakthrough has been achieved in efforts to end the Israel-Hamas conflict. US President Donald Trump has departed for Israel, while Israel and Hamas have initiated a hostage exchange process. This agreement aims to move both sides toward ending the ongoing war and taking steps toward lasting peace.

According to Israeli government spokesperson Shosh Bedrosian, a total of 20 living hostages will be released today in three separate groups, while the bodies of 28 deceased hostages will be handed over to Israel. In return, Israel will release 250 Palestinian prisoners.

The conflict began on October 7, 2023, when Hamas launched a large-scale attack on Israel, leading to significant casualties and destruction on both sides. The current peace arrangement was made possible with the mediation of the United States, Egypt, Qatar, and Turkey.

Hamas’s armed wing has stated that it will adhere to the ceasefire and its timeline, provided Israel fulfills its commitments. As part of the first phase, Hamas has handed over 7 Israeli hostages to the International Red Cross. The release of hostages has sparked celebrations across Israel, with citizens gathering in the capital, Tel Aviv, since Sunday night.

According to the Times of Israel, the hostages released are Etan Mor, Gali and Ziv Berman, Matan Engrist, Omri Miran, Guy Gilboa Dalal, and Elan Ahel. Sources indicate that the second group of hostages is scheduled to be released around 1:30 PM. Meanwhile, the 250 Palestinian prisoners to be released will return to their families in the West Bank, Jerusalem, and abroad.