Hamas has released all 20 living hostages held in Gaza, as part of a ceasefire pausing two years of war that pummelled the territory, killed tens of thousands of Palestinians, and left scores of captives in militant hands.

The hostages were expected be reunited with their families on Monday and undergo medical checks in Israel.

Seven have already arrived in Israel, while another 13 were handed to Red Cross officials, who began transporting them through Gaza, the Israeli military said.

As well as the 20 living hostages expected to be released, more than 1900 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 friends of hos

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