Israel has released 90 Palestinian prisoners under the terms of a ceasefire agreement with Hamas, marking a pivotal moment in efforts to end months of hostilities in Gaza.
The release, confirmed by Israeli prison authorities on Sunday, included women and minors, with the majority reportedly from the West Bank and East Jerusalem. Palestinian media shared footage of some of the released prisoners arriving in Ramallah, greeted by emotional family members.
This development comes as part of a broader agreement, which also saw Hamas release the first three Israeli hostages. Identified as Romi Gonen, Emily Damari, and Doron Steinbrecher, the women were handed over to the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) on Sunday before being reunited with their families in Tel Aviv.
Hamas spokespersons have announced plans to release an additional four Israeli hostages next Saturday, under the agreement that involves the exchange of 33 Israeli hostages for 1,904 Palestinian prisoners over the next six weeks.
The ceasefire, a result of prolonged mediation efforts by the United States, Egypt, and Qatar, is a three-stage agreement aimed at halting the 15-month-long Gaza war that has devastated countless lives on both sides.
