Hamas has released seven hostages to the Red Cross, marking the first phase of a ceasefire agreement in the ongoing conflict with Israel. The release is part of a broader deal in which Hamas has pledged to exchange 20 living hostages for over 1,900 Palestinian prisoners held by Israel. The International Committee of the Red Cross has begun a multi-phase operation to oversee the transfer of hostages and prisoners, as well as the remains of the deceased. Across Israel, families and supporters gathered in public spaces to await news of the hostages' safe return, with major events taking place in cities like Tel Aviv.