DEIR AL-BALAH, Gaza Strip (AP) — Hamas released seven hostages on Monday, the first to be freed as part of a ceasefire pausing two years of war that pummeled the Gaza Strip, killed tens of thousands of Palestinians, and left scores of captives in militant hands.

The seven were expected be reunited with their families and undergo medical checks in Israel. Meanwhile, the remaining 13 living hostages were handed to Red Cross officials, who began transporting them through Gaza, the Israeli military said.

In addition to the 20 living hostages expected to be released, over 1,900 Palestinian prisoners held by Israel are set to be freed. The bodies of the remaining 28 dead hostages are also expected to be handed over as part of the deal, although the exact timing remained unclear.

Families and

See Full Page