Four Israeli hostages released by Hamas in the Gaza Strip were handed over to the Israel Defense Forces and Israel Security Agency (ISA) forces on Saturday, the IDF announced.
Hamas-run broadcaster Al Aqsa reported earlier in the day that the movement had handed over four Israeli women to Red Cross representatives in Gaza City's Palestine Square.
"The four returning hostages are currently being accompanied by IDF special forces and ISA forces on their return to Israeli territory, where they will undergo an initial medical assessment. The commanders and soldiers of the Israel Defense Forces salute and embrace the returning hostages as they make their way home to the State of Israel," the IDF said in a statement.
The first stage of the deal involves the release of 33 Israeli hostages in exchange for about 1,000 Palestinian prisoners. Israeli troops must also withdraw to the borders of the Gaza Strip, although they will remain within them for now. From the first day of the truce, humanitarian aid deliveries will increase, with up to 600 trucks per day allowed in, including 50 bringing in fuel. The Palestinians will receive 200,000 tents and 60,000 mobile homes.
This is the second ceasefire since the hostilities broke out in October 2023. The first was concluded in November 2023 and lasted only six days.