A ceasefire between Israel and Hamas took hold in the Gaza Strip on Sunday, ushering in an initial six-week period of calm and raising hopes for the release of dozens of militant-held hostages and an end to a devastating 15-month conflict.

Thirty-three people will be released during the first 6-week phase, including female soldiers and civilians, children and men over 50. Here is a look at those expected to be released on Sunday.

Palestinian militant group Hamas said on Sunday it would release three Israeli female hostages as part of the first phase of its ceasefire deal with Israel.