The first group of Israeli hostages was released on Sunday as part of a temporary ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas, marking a significant development in the 15-month-long conflict that has devastated Gaza. The release, which was captured on video and broadcast by ABC News, showed chaotic scenes as hostages were handed over to the Red Cross, with dozens more expected to be freed in the coming weeks.
The ceasefire officially went into effect at 4:15 a.m. Eastern Time after a delay caused by Israel’s insistence on receiving the names of the first three hostages. Once confirmed, the transfer process began, with footage showing the hostages being moved through Gaza amidst a flurry of activity.
READ: Incoming NSA Previews Trump’s ‘More Aggressive’ Approach To Illegal Immigration
The three hostages released on Sunday were identified as 24-year-old Romi Gonen, 31-year-old Doron Steinbrecher, and 28-year-old Emily Damari. According to reports from CBS News, a total of 33 hostages are expected to be freed over a six-week period as part of the agreement, which prioritizes the release of women, children, and individuals over 50 years old.
As part of the ceasefire terms, Israeli fighter jets and drones were reportedly withdrawn from Gaza’s airspace. In return for the release of the initial captives, 191 aid trucks were seen entering Gaza through the Kerem Shalom crossing, providing much-needed humanitarian relief to the embattled region.
U.S. President Joe Biden, speaking at a press conference following the hostage release, outlined the details of the agreement, which he said was based on a proposal he introduced in May 2024.
“The ceasefire has gone into effect in Gaza, and today we’re seeing hostages being released. Three Israeli women have been freed after 470 days in captivity. Four more women will be released in seven days, with additional hostages to follow, including at least two American citizens,” Biden said. “Today, the guns in Gaza have gone silent. This was the deal that I outlined for the world back on May 31st.”
READ: Texas Sen. Ted Cruz, Rep. Jodey Arrington Look To Quash Biden’s Offshore Drilling Ban
Meanwhile, President-elect Donald Trump, who is set to take office Monday, attributed the ceasefire to his “historic victory” in the November election. Taking to Truth Social, Trump wrote, “Hostages starting to come out today! Three wonderful young women will be first.”
Trump has previously vowed to take a hardline stance on terrorism in the region, warning Middle Eastern leaders and militant groups in December that there would be “hell to pay” for those who commit “atrocities against humanity.” His response to the ceasefire deal suggests his administration will maintain a tough approach while supporting efforts to bring hostages home.
As the ceasefire continues to hold, hundreds of Palestinian prisoners are also set to be released by Israel as part of the negotiated exchange.
The situation remains fluid, with both Israeli and Palestinian officials closely monitoring the truce and the subsequent releases scheduled to take place over the next several weeks.
Please make a small donation to the Tampa Free Press to help sustain independent journalism. Your contribution enables us to continue delivering high-quality, local, and national news coverage.
Connect with us: Follow the Tampa Free Press on Facebook and Twitter for breaking news and updates.
Sign up: Subscribe to our free newsletter for a curated selection of top stories delivered straight to your inbox.