In a significant development under the ongoing ceasefire agreement, Hamas released three Israeli hostages, while Israel freed 183 Palestinian prisoners. This exchange marks the fourth phase of a multi-stage truce aimed at ending the 15-month-long conflict in Gaza. The handover took place at the Rafah border crossing, the sole entry point between Gaza and Egypt. The released hostages were transported to Israel via the Rafah crossing, where they were received by Red Cross personnel. Simultaneously, Palestinian prisoners were released in the West Bank and Gaza, greeted by families and supporters. This exchange is part of a broader ceasefire agreement mediated by Egypt, Qatar, and the United States, which also includes provisions for the withdrawal of Israeli forces from certain areas in Gaza. The Rafah crossing's reopening facilitated the movement of the released individuals and allowed for the delivery of humanitarian aid to Gaza. This development has been met with cautious optimism from international observers, who hope it will pave the way for further negotiations and a more lasting peace. #IsraelHamasCeasefire #HostageExchange #RafahCrossing #GazaPeaceProcess #MiddleEastPeace #HumanitarianAid #PrisonerSwap #GazaConflict #InternationalDiplomacy #PeaceNegotiations
