The hostage exchange is the second since the current ceasefire agreement. It is expected that by the end of the first phase of the deal's completion, 33 Israeli hostages will have been freed in exchange for the release of around 1,900 Palestinian detainees.

Israeli officials are engaged in discussions with mediators to secure the release of civilian hostage, Arbel Yehud in the coming days, according to a report by Kan public broadcaster. Hamas has faced criticism from Israel for violating the terms of the ceasefire agreement by releasing four female soldiers before addressing the release of civilian