Hamas releases Israeli, Thai hostages in ceasefire agreement

In a significant development following a ceasefire deal with Hamas, the first group of hostages, consisting of 24 individuals, were released on Friday. The International Committee of the Red Cross, acting as a neutral intermediary, confirmed the safe release and facilitated the transportation of the hostages from Gaza to the Rafah border.

The released group includes 13 Israeli women and children held since a Hamas raid on Israel seven weeks ago, along with 12 Thai nationals. Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin confirmed their release, noting that the Thai captives were en route to an Israeli hospital.

The four-day truce, allowing for the release of 50 captives, commenced without reports of fighting. In parallel, 39 Palestinian detainees were set to be released from Israeli jails on Friday as part of the reciprocal arrangement with Hamas.

The release process involves the transfer of detainees to an Israeli military checkpoint in the West Bank, marking a step towards the cessation of hostilities. The ceasefire, mediated by Qatar, brings relief to Gaza’s population and allows vital aid to enter the region.

As the truce took effect, fuel and cooking gas shipments entered Gaza from Egypt, addressing some of the pressing needs of the population. Israel, during the truce, permitted the daily delivery of 130,000 liters of fuel, albeit a fraction of Gaza’s daily requirements.

The article also notes warnings by the Israeli military against displaced Palestinians attempting to return to their homes in the territory’s north. Despite these warnings, hundreds were observed walking north.

Two Palestinians were reportedly shot and killed by Israeli troops, with another 11 wounded, as they ventured towards their homes. The fragile ceasefire raised hopes for a gradual de-escalation of the conflict, offering respite to both Gaza and Israel.

The article concludes with the complexity of the situation, as the exchange of hostages between Hamas and Israel remains a delicate process, with future developments uncertain.