JERUSALEM, Israel – The Israeli government announced that the first seven hostages of the 48 still in Hamas captivity have been released to the Red Cross. All 20 of the living hostages held for more than two years are expected to be freed.

Hostage families have gathered at the Gaza border, waiting to meet their loved ones. The captives will be turned over at three different locations in the Gaza Strip.

The first hostages are Matan Engerst, Alon Ohel, Eitan Mor, Gali and Ziv Berman, Omri Miran, and Guy Gilboa-Dalal.

Israel is also awaiting the arrival of President Donald Trump, who will address the Knesset during a brief, four-hour visit. President Isaac Herzog will bestow Israel's highest civilian award, the Presidential Medal of Honor, to the U.S. president.

More than 1,900 Palestinia

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