The Palestinian group Hamas has released and handed over the first seven out of twenty living hostages to the Red Cross. This was reported by The Times of Israel and the Israel Defense Forces via Telegram.
According to the publication: "Seven hostages were handed to the Red Cross in Gaza. The announcement made by the spokesperson at the so-called Hostages Square (a square in Tel Aviv where protests demanding the release of abducted Israeli citizens have been held for a long time, and where thousands have gathered to welcome the released individuals – ed.) was met with loud applause."
The released individuals include Ziv and Gali Berman, Matan Angrest, Alon Ohel, Omri Miran, Eitan Mora, and Guy Gilboa-Dalal.
The Saudi news channel Al-Hadath also reported that the Red Cross received seven living hostages in the city of Gaza.
The Israel Defense Forces confirmed this information.
"According to the Red Cross, the seven hostages were placed under their care and are now on their way to the IDF and Israeli security services in the Gaza Strip.
The Israel Defense Forces are prepared to receive additional hostages, who are expected to be handed over to the Red Cross later," the statement said.
Background. The military wing of the Palestinian group Hamas published the names of 20 living hostages scheduled for release on October 13.
Earlier, a high-ranking Hamas official stated that the process of releasing Israeli hostages held in the Gaza Strip would begin on the morning of October 13 and could conclude before U.S. President Donald Trump's scheduled address in the Knesset.
On October 10, the Israeli government approved an agreement for the release of all 48 hostages held by Hamas in the Gaza Strip. With this decision, a ceasefire regime will come into effect.
The day before, the main spokesperson for Hamas, Khalil al-Hayya, announced a "ceasefire" in the Gaza Strip.
On the evening of October 8, Trump announced the signing of the first phase of a peace plan between Israel and Hamas, which, according to him, includes the swift release of all hostages and the withdrawal of Israeli troops.
