The release of Israeli hostages that have been held in Gaza for two years has begun, with 20 survivors to be freed, followed by the handover of 28 others – 26 dead and two whose fate is unknown.

Their journey to freedom began at 8am (4pm AEDT) from the Netzarim corridor and is expected to continue until at 10am (6pm AEDT) in Gaza’s Khan Younis.

Reuters reported shortly before 4pm (AEDT) that vehicles marked with the logo of the International Committee of the Red Cross, which are expected to carry released Palestinian prisoners and detainees, were seen on the move in Khan Younis.

Shortly after, Israeli media confirmed the first seven hostages had been released.

US President Donald Trump is expected to greet some of the hostages before making a speech in Israel’s parliament as the fragil

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