A ceasefire in Gaza is now in effect, with hostages set to be released, offering relief to Palestinians after months of conflict.
The ceasefire in Gaza is now in effect, the Israeli Prime Minister’s Office said in a statement.
The truce began at 11:15 am (4:15 am ET), after being delayed by almost three hours. The delay was caused by a “technical” issue in delivering the names, according to Hamas officials.
Israel has now received list of three female hostages set for release this Sunday, the Israeli Prime Minister’s Office said in a statement.
The names are British-Israeli hostage Emily Damari, Israeli hostage Doron Steinbrecher and Israeli hostage Romi Gonen, according to Reuters.
“The security establishment is currently reviewing the details,” the statement said, adding that the families of the hostages have been notified by the Israeli military.
In addition, Hamas has released the names of four more Israeli hostages set to be released until the end of this week, according to a statement by Hamas armed wing spokesman Abu Obaida.
Palestinians demonstrate relief with the official start of the ceasefire.
"I feel like at last I found some water to drink after getting lost in the desert for 15 months. I feel alive again," 31-year-old Aya Mohammad, as the ceasefire took effect.
"We are now waiting for the day we head back to our home in Gaza City, whether damaged or not, it doesn't matter, the nightmare of death and starvation is over," said Mohammad, who had to flee Gaza City because of the war and is currently living in Deir Al-Balah with her family.
This is a developing story.
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Israel is set to begin negotiations on the second phase of its Gaza ceasefire deal, which is expected to include an exchange of the remaining Israeli hostages with Palestinian detainees, Foreign Minister Gideon Saar announced on Tuesday.
Russia on demanded that NATO formally retract its 2008 commitment to grant Ukraine membership in the alliance. Moscow also dismissed any suggestion of NATO troops acting as peacekeepers, following talks with U.S. officials in Saudi Arabia.
Pope Francis remains in hospital for a fifth day due to a "complex" respiratory infection, forcing the cancellation of his scheduled Holy Year events, the Vatican announced on Tuesday.
Burundi pulls its troops from eastern Congo as M23 rebels gain ground, seizing major cities. The UN reports child executions by rebels. Thousands flee to Burundi, facing overcrowded shelters. Uganda steps in to stop militia killings.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio outlined steps to restore U.S.-Russia relations and end the Ukraine war, emphasizing diplomacy, expert negotiations, and economic opportunities. He stressed the need for compromise on sanctions and reaffirmed President Trump’s commitment to lasting peace.
Afghanistan’s economy showed growth in 2023-2024, but high poverty, unemployment, and weak demand persist. Inflation rose in December, while the trade deficit surged by 54% to $9 billion. Despite improved food exports, declines in textiles and coal exports signal ongoing economic challenges.
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