A ceasefire agreement in Gaza has officially taken effect, marking a moment of relief after prolonged violence.
Hamas released three Israeli female hostages, while Isreal freed 90 Palestinian prisoners on Sunday.
Thousands of Palestinians gathered in the West Bank to welcome the freed indiviual with jubilant celebrations.
Among the Palestinians released from Israeli custody were 69 women and 21 children.
Following hours of delay, the prisoners were released from Ofer prison.
Meanwhile, the three Israeli women released by Hamas underwent medical examinations at Sheba Hospital before being reunited with their families in Israel.
Hamas has announced that the next prisoner exchange will occur on January 25.
Israeli media reports suggest that four additional hostages will be released from Gaza during the next phase of the agreement.
As part of the agreement, aid supplies have started arriving in Gaza.
Hundreds of trucks carrying essential items such as flour, ready to eat food parcels, and other necessities have crossed into Gaza.
Under the deal, 600 aid trucks will enter Gaza daily, providing much needed relief to its residents.
Until the ceasefire came into effect, Israeli bombardment of Gaza continued.
One Saturday afternoon alone, 19 Palestinians were reportedly killed, adding to the toll of over 47,899 Palestinians, including thousands of women and children, who have died during the 15-month-long conflict.
Additionally, over 110,000 Palestinians have been injured, and thousands remain missing, according to Gaza’s health department.
Hamas spokesperson Kahled Qadomi declared the ceasefire as a victory for Palestinians, stating, “we have won. The world now knows Israel has been defeated. The Israeli military has no place in Gaza. Through faith, patience, and resilience, we achieved this victory-not Netanyahu.”
The Israeli government confirmed receiving the names of three hostages from hama, including 24-year-old Rumi Gonen, who was captured on October 7, 2023, during the Nova Festival.
The other two women released were Emily Damari and Doron Stein Brecher.
The ceasefire was initially set to begin at 8:30 AM but was delayed due to Hamas releasing the hostage list late.
