After a nearly three-hour delay, a long-awaited ceasefire between Israel and Hamas officially began in Gaza at 0915 GMT. The postponement was enacted following last-minute orders from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
The spokesperson for Qatar's foreign ministry confirmed the commencement of the truce, marking a significant step towards de-escalation in the region.
In a notable development, Netanyahu's office announced that three captives held in Gaza will be released on Sunday afternoon. This release comes in exchange for the first group of Palestinian prisoners. Additionally, the office stated that four other living female hostages are scheduled to be freed within the next seven days.
This move is seen as a pivotal moment in the ongoing conflict, potentially paving the way for further negotiations and reducing tensions between the two parties.
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Gaza ceasefire begins after delay, first Israel hostages to be freed
cgtn.com
