Ceasefire in Gaza that was expected to begin today hit delays, possibly stalling the hostage release; the Israeli military continued attacks

No American is on the initial hostage release list provided by Hamas, nor is two-year-old Kfir Bibas − the red-headed baby taken in the Oct. 7, 2023, attacks who has garnered global attention.

Rarely seen in the open while the war raged, masked and armed fighters spread out publicly through Gaza’s cities in a show of force on Sunday.

The first three hostages were released Sunday after the ceasefire officially began. A total of 33 hostages will be released in the first phase of the deal.

Masked Hamas fighters carrying rifles returned to the streets of Gaza after a ceasefire came into effect on Sunday, declaring “victory” as they drove through rubble-strewn streets.

It remains unclear whether the six-week truce will lead to a permanent cease-fire and the release of the remaining hostages in Gaza, or if fighting will resume.

President Joe Biden gave remarks on the ceasefire taking effect between Israel and Hamas as aid trucks start to enter Gaza. Three female hostages are confirmed to have been released and are in Israeli custody.

A long-awaited ceasefire has started in Gaza following a three-hour delay, bringing respite to the besieged enclave after a bloody 15 months. Follow for live updates.

Three hostages were handed over to Israeli forces — the first of 33 expected to be freed over the next six weeks in exchange for some 1,900 Palestinians. The deal follows months of negotiations.

By Nidal al-Mughrabi and Mohammad Salem CAIRO/GAZA (Reuters) -Thousands of Palestinians burst into the streets across Gaza as a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas began on Sunday, some in celebration,

Shahar Azani, former spokesperson for Israel’s Consulate in New York and a veteran Israeli diplomat, says the hostage deal struck between Israel and Hamas shows the Jewish state values life, and the terrorists only death.