In a significant development in the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, four female Israeli hostages, all of whom are soldiers, have been handed over to the Red Cross in Gaza. This marks the second hostage release since a ceasefire was agreed upon.
Hamas gunmen and crowds gathered in Palestine Square in Gaza City in anticipation of the release. The Israeli military has confirmed that the four women will be taken to Israeli territory for an initial medical assessment.
In exchange for the release of these hostages, as many as 200 Palestinian prisoners held in Israel are set to be freed. Hamas is expected to provide further details about the remaining 26 hostages who are also scheduled to be released in the coming weeks.
This development brings a glimmer of hope for peace in the region, as both sides work towards prisoner exchanges and the release of hostages. The international community will be watching closely as efforts to de-escalate tensions and move towards a lasting peace continue.
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