Red Cross Negotiates Hostage Release in Gaza

The International Committee of the Red Cross accelerated efforts on Monday to reach a site in the northern Gaza Strip where hostages held by Hamas were set to be collected, according to the Israeli military. This marks a significant development in the ongoing tension between the two sides.

The military noted that additional hostages would be released subsequently, indicating a phased approach to the delicate negotiations that have captivated international attention.

Hamas, on their part, released a statement listing 20 hostages they intend to release and highlighted the expected release of more than 1,900 Palestinian prisoners by Israel, adding a complex layer to the already challenging diplomatic discussions.

(With inputs from agencies.)