Israeli hostage’s triumphant return as ceasefire enters seventh day

The long-awaited ceasefire between Israel and Hamas in Gaza has entered its seventh day.

So far, seven Israeli hostages and hundreds of Palestinian prisoners have been released as part of the first phase of the agreement.

Celebrations erupted in Gaza following news of the ceasefire, while similar jubilant scenes took place in Tel Aviv as the trio were released by Hamas.

In Israel, many cite US President Donald Trump’s re-election as a catalyst for the new ceasefire agreement and release of Israeli hostages from Gaza.

Trump’s inauguration has been attended by family members of hostages still held by Hamas.

The ceasefire ushers in an initial six weeks of calm and raises hopes for the release of nearly 100 remaining hostages and an end to the devastating 15-month war, which began on October 7, 2023.