Palestinian radicals have begun the process of freeing hostages in the Gaza Strip, handing over the first group to the International Committee of the Red Cross. According to Israeli broadcaster Kan, seven people were initially released. All have already been transferred to the protection of the international organization.
The release operation is expected to continue throughout the day. According to preliminary reports, a total of twenty hostages are planned to be handed over to the Red Cross.
This process is part of the agreements reached between the parties to the conflict. Representatives of the humanitarian organization are ensuring the safe evacuation of those released and providing them with the necessary medical care.
Earlier, US President Donald Trump expressed confidence that the international stabilization force planned for deployment in the Gaza Strip would unlikely need to be actively used. According to the American leader, the deployed contingent represents a "good, powerful force," but their use is unlikely to be necessary.