Hamas is also expected to receive nearly 2,000 Palestinian prisoners and detainees held in Israel.
By Kehinde Okeowo
Hamas has released seven of 20 Israeli hostages after more than 780 days in Gaza following a United State-brokered ceasefire deal.
The development was confirmed on Monday by the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC).
Under the agreement, nearly 2,000 Palestinian prisoners and detainees held in Israel are also expected to be freed in the first phase of the exchange.
ALSO READ: Isaac Schmidt explains why he chose Switzerland over Nigeria
In a post on X, the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) said: “According to information received, the Red Cross is on its way to a meeting point in northern Gaza where several hostages will be transferred into their custody. The IDF is prepared to receive additional hostages who are expected to be transferred to the Red Cross later on.”
Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump is heading to Israel, where he is scheduled to meet Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and address the Israeli parliament.
He will also meet with some of the families of the freed hostages.
