Hamas frees first batch of hostages under truce, including 13 Israelis, officials and reports say

The article reports that Hamas has released the first batch of hostages as part of a cease-fire deal. This release includes 13 Israelis who had been held in the Gaza Strip since Hamas staged a raid on Israel approximately seven weeks ago. Additionally, 12 Thai nationals were released. This development follows the initiation of a cease-fire between Israel and Hamas, which has allowed aid to start flowing into Gaza. The truce has provided some relief for the people of Gaza, who have faced weeks of Israeli bombardment and shortages of essential supplies. However, it’s important to note that Israel has expressed its determination to resume its offensive once the cease-fire concludes.

Under the terms of the deal, Hamas committed to freeing at least 50 of the approximately 240 hostages taken during the October 7 raid, while Israel agreed to release 150 Palestinian prisoners. The release process prioritizes women and children and is set to occur in stages, with the first group of 13 Israelis already freed.

The hope is that this cease-fire and the subsequent releases will contribute to reducing the conflict’s intensity, which has caused significant destruction in Gaza and raised concerns of broader regional instability.

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