**Title: Seven Israeli Hostages Released by Hamas Amid Ceasefire**

JERUSALEM, Israel – In a significant development, Hamas has released seven Israeli hostages to the International Committee of the Red Cross as part of a ceasefire agreement following two years of conflict. This marks the first phase of a peace plan facilitated by the United States. The hostages were among 48 individuals captured during the October 7, 2023, attacks by Hamas, which resulted in the deaths of approximately 1,200 people in Israel.

The released hostages include Matan Engerst, Alon Ohel, Eitan Mor, Gali and Ziv Berman, Omri Miran, and Guy Gilboa-Dalal. Families of the hostages gathered at the Gaza border, eagerly awaiting their loved ones' return. The handover took place at three different locations within the Gaza Strip.

As part of the ceasefire deal, Israel is expected to release nearly 2,000 Palestinian prisoners, many of whom have been convicted of serious offenses. The release of these prisoners is anticipated to occur shortly after the hostages are returned.

In conjunction with the hostage release, U.S. President Donald Trump is visiting Israel and Egypt to discuss the peace plan. Trump is scheduled to address the Knesset, Israel's parliament, and will receive the Presidential Medal of Honor from President Isaac Herzog. This visit is part of a broader diplomatic effort to stabilize the region following the recent hostilities.

The ceasefire has brought a temporary halt to fighting in Gaza, allowing for humanitarian aid to flow into the region, which has been severely affected by the conflict. The United Nations has reported that Israel has approved significant amounts of aid to enter Gaza, where many residents are facing dire conditions.

The release of the hostages has sparked celebrations in Israel, with thousands gathering in public spaces to express their relief and joy. However, the situation remains complex, as the future governance of Gaza and the status of Hamas continue to be contentious issues.

The ongoing conflict has resulted in widespread devastation in Gaza, with reports indicating that over 67,000 Palestinians have died since the war began. The humanitarian crisis is severe, with many residents displaced and in need of assistance.

As the situation evolves, both Israeli and Palestinian leaders are under pressure to navigate the challenges posed by the ceasefire and the potential for lasting peace in the region. The release of hostages and prisoners is seen as a crucial step in this process, but significant hurdles remain to be addressed in the coming days and weeks.