**Hamas Releases First Seven Hostages Amid Ceasefire** Hamas has released seven hostages to the Red Cross, marking the first exchange under a ceasefire agreement in the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict. The condition of the hostages has not been disclosed. Hamas has stated that it plans to exchange 20 living hostages for over 1,900 Palestinian prisoners held by Israel. On Monday, families and friends of the hostages celebrated as Israeli television confirmed the transfer. Tens of thousands of Israelis gathered at public screenings across the country, with a significant event taking place in Tel Aviv. Meanwhile, U.S. President Donald Trump and other leaders are visiting the region to discuss a proposed U.S. deal and plans for postwar recovery. Humanitarian aid is expected to flow into Gaza, which is facing severe famine and has left hundreds of thousands homeless. The hostage and prisoner exchange is seen as a crucial step toward resolving the deadliest conflict between Israel and Hamas to date. Major Israeli television networks aired special broadcasts leading up to the hostages' release, creating a sense of anticipation. People began gathering at Hostages Square in Tel Aviv before dawn to witness the event. The return of the hostages concludes a painful chapter for Israel, as they were captured during the Hamas attack on October 7, 2023, which initiated the war. Since their capture, Israeli media has tracked their days in captivity, and many citizens have worn yellow pins and ribbons in solidarity. Tens of thousands have participated in weekly demonstrations demanding their release. As the conflict continued, some demonstrators accused Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of delaying action for political reasons, while he has blamed Hamas for the stalemate. The ceasefire was agreed upon last week amid mounting international pressure and Israel's increasing isolation. The released hostages will be transferred to the Israeli military after being handed over to the Red Cross, and they will be taken to the Reim military base to reunite with their families. It is uncertain if the remains of up to 28 other hostages will be returned simultaneously. An international task force will search for deceased hostages not returned within 72 hours, according to Gal Hirsch, Israel's coordinator for hostages and the missing. The timing for the release of Palestinian prisoners has not yet been announced. This group includes 250 individuals serving life sentences for attacks on Israelis, as well as 1,700 others captured from Gaza during the conflict and held without charges. The war began with a surprise attack by Hamas militants on southern Israel, resulting in approximately 1,200 deaths and 250 hostages taken. In the subsequent Israeli military response, over 67,000 Palestinians have reportedly been killed, according to Gaza's health ministry. The conflict has devastated large areas of Gaza and displaced about 90% of its two million residents. It has also sparked regional tensions, global protests, and allegations of genocide, which Israel denies.