Hamas Hands Over First Batch Of Hostages To Red Cross: Israel Confirms To Media

On Monday, Hamas released seven Israeli hostages to the International Committee of the Red Cross. This marks the first group freed under the ongoing ceasefire between Israel and Hamas. The condition of these hostages remains unknown. As part of the agreement, 20 living hostages will be exchanged for over 1,900 Palestinian prisoners held by Israel.

In Tel Aviv, crowds gathered at Hostages Square, waving US and Israeli flags alongside a portrait of US President Donald Trump. The release coincides with Trump's visit to the region for a peace summit. Before departing for Israel, Trump declared that the war in Gaza is "over." His visit aims to celebrate his role in brokering last week's ceasefire and hostage release deal.

Hostage Release and Humanitarian Aid

The next 24 hours are crucial for the fragile ceasefire between Israel and Hamas. Israel anticipates that 20 living hostages will be freed from Gaza on Monday, nearly two years after their capture. The Red Cross will oversee their transfer before they are handed over to Israeli forces at the Reim military base for medical evaluation and reunification with their families.

Preparations are underway as Red Cross ambulances stand ready to assist hostages who may need immediate medical care after more than two years in captivity. However, it is uncertain if the remains of up to 28 deceased hostages will be returned simultaneously. An international body is expected to help locate these remains if not released on Monday.

Palestinian Prisoner Release

As part of the ceasefire terms, Israel plans to release around 2,000 Palestinian prisoners. This includes approximately 1,700 individuals detained from Gaza during the conflict without formal charges. Among those expected to be freed are about 250 Palestinians convicted over attacks that killed or injured Israelis, along with others held on lesser charges.

While Israel considers these prisoners terrorists, many Palestinians view them as freedom fighters resisting Israeli occupation. Israel has reportedly warned Palestinians in the West Bank against celebrating these releases due to potential repercussions.

Trump's Visit and Peace Summit

US President Donald Trump is scheduled to arrive in Israel on Monday morning for a brief but symbolic visit. He will meet families of hostages and address Israel's parliament, the Knesset, before traveling to Egypt for a "peace summit" with regional and global leaders. The US President is expected to return to Washington overnight Tuesday.

The summit in Sharm El-Sheikh will bring together more than 20 world leaders aiming "to end the war in Gaza Strip" and enhance efforts for peace and stability in the Middle East. Neither Israel nor Hamas will attend this gathering.

International Reactions

Iran's foreign minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi expressed gratitude for Egypt President El-Sisi's invitation to attend the Sharm El-Sheikh Summit but emphasized that neither he nor President Masoud Pezeshkian can engage with counterparts who have attacked Iran. Araghchi reiterated Iran's commitment to regional stability and peace.

The summit will be chaired by US President Donald Trump on his peace plan for Gaza and attended by various world leaders including UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres. Both Israel and Hamas will not attend.

Award for Trump

Israel President Isaac Herzog announced that US President Donald Trump would receive the country's highest civilian award for his efforts in securing hostage releases from Gaza and helping end the war. Herzog stated that Trump's actions have laid foundations for a new era in Middle East security and cooperation.

"Through his tireless efforts, President Trump has not only helped bring our loved ones home but has also laid foundations for a new era built on security," Herzog said in a statement issued by his office.

This historic moment marks significant progress towards peace after years of conflict between Israel and Hamas. As events unfold over coming days, hopes remain high among all parties involved that lasting peace can finally be achieved within this troubled region.