First Israeli hostages come home

Gaza (QJ) – The first hostages released from Gaza under a long-awaited ceasefire agreement have returned to Israel. The news sparked joyous scenes in Tel Aviv, where large crowds gathered to celebrate their release.

The three released Israeli hostages—Romi Gonen, Doron Steinbrecher, and Emily Damari—are the first of 33 hostages set to be freed over the next six weeks. In return, 90 Palestinian prisoners are also being released.

The Israeli military has withdrawn from several areas in southern and northern Gaza following the start of the ceasefire on Sunday morning, according to an Israeli military official who spoke to the media.

Displaced residents of Gaza have begun returning to their homes, while aid trucks carrying urgently needed supplies have entered Gaza.