Ceasefire in Gaza begins as first round of hostages are released

The ceasefire in Gaza between Israel and Hamas has begun, as the first 3 hostages, out of 33 expected, have been released.

Surrounded by armed Hamas militants, 31-year-old Doron Steinbrecher, 28-year-old Emily Damari, and 24-year-old Romi Gonen were released to the Red Cross on Sunday as part of the first round of releases during the 6 week agreement. They will then be transferred back into Israel. They were held hostage for 471 days.

The ceasefire deal was achieved following pressure from the Trump administration, vowing “All hell to pay in the Middle East” if hostages weren’t released before his inauguration day. Just one day prior to taking the oath of office, it appears that this threat has proven successful.