
In a significant and long-awaited development, 20 Israeli hostages will be released today through the Netzarim corridor, as part of a swap deal between Israel and Palestinian representatives.
Israel has agreed to release 1,950 Palestinian detainees and long-term prisoners in exchange for these 20 hostages. Two of the Israeli hostages are in critical condition.
In a symbolic gesture, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu delivered a handwritten note to the hostages, saying: "Welcome back!"
Meanwhile, crowds have gathered in Hostage Square in Tel Aviv and other cities, anxiously and excitedly awaiting the return of the hostages.
On the other hand, Palestinian prisoners have been seen boarding buses under tight security measures, while Red Cross vehicles are on standby to provide humanitarian and medical transfer.
Also, the first humanitarian aid for the starving residents of Gaza has arrived, marking another important step in this day of dramatic developments.
The event is being closely followed by the international community, amid hopes for easing tensions and a possible breakthrough towards calming the situation in the region.