A tenuous ceasefire between Israel and Hamas began Sunday, with the Palestinian terrorist group freeing three hostages, signalling a seismic shift fueled mostly by President-elect Donald Trump’s return to Washington and his call for the two sides to negotiate an agreement in the 15-month-old conflict. Key issues hovering over the current situation include whether Hamas will fulfill the provisions of the ceasefire pact and who will manage the Gaza Strip over the long term. On Sunday, the spotlight was on three captives released after 471 days in Hamas captivity: Romi Gonen, 24, Emily Damari, 28, and Doron Steinbrecher, 31. They were taken prisoner during Hamas’ assault in Israel on October 7, 2023, which killed 1,200 Israelis.

Hamas still has approximately 100 hostages. Israeli military officials verified that Hamas had handed over the hostages to the Red Cross. Israeli sources stated that they were transferred to Israel and were in good health.

Hostages will being released today! Three amazing young women will be among the first,” the president-elect wrote on Truth Social early Sunday.