In a glimmer of hope amidst ongoing tensions, Hamas released three Israeli hostages on Saturday as part of the fourth batch in the initial phase of a prisoner exchange and ceasefire agreement. In return, Israel freed 183 Palestinian detainees and allowed 50 wounded and sick Palestinians to leave Gaza for medical treatment abroad.
The handover took place in two locations: Khan Younis in southern Gaza and Gaza City in the north, marking a significant step towards easing hostilities in the region.
Among those released was 65-year-old Keith Shmonsel Segal, an Israeli-American citizen. Hamas' armed wing, the Al-Qassam Brigades, transferred Segal to the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) in Gaza. Dressed in dark clothing and carrying two envelopes filled with gifts for him and his wife, Segal waved to onlookers before being escorted back to Israel. 
This exchange brings a ray of optimism to many hoping for lasting peace. The continuation into the second phase of truce talks fuels anticipation for future agreements that could lead to stability in the region. 
Reference(s):
Hamas releases 3 Israeli hostages, 2nd phase truce talks to start
cgtn.com
