In a significant development following 15 months of hostilities, three Israeli women held as hostages by Hamas were released and have safely returned to Israel.

This event marks the commencement of a six-week ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas that also anticipates further negotiations on the potential release of additional hostages.

The released hostages—Emily Damari, Romi Gonen, and Doron Steinbrecher—were handed over to the Red Cross in Gaza and subsequently transferred to Israeli authorities.

According to medical reports, the women are in stable condition and are now reunited with their families.

The ceasefire officially began at 11:15 am local time following a brief delay due to negotiations over the names of the hostages to be released.

Hamas initially postponed revealing the identities, citing 'technical field reasons' but later complied, facilitating the start of the truce.

The breakthrough follows extensive diplomatic efforts led by the United States, Qatar, and Egypt.

The agreement outlines a phased release of hostages and prisoners, with an initial focus on the return of 33 hostages from Gaza, in exchange for the release of 700 Palestinian detainees.

This first phase aims to provide relief and address humanitarian needs in the war-torn region.

The ceasefire has sparked celebrations in both Israel and the Gaza Strip, despite the overwhelming destruction observed in northern Gaza.

Residents began returning to their homes to assess the damage and start cleanup efforts.

Meanwhile, Israeli forces have started retreating to a buffer zone inside Gaza as part of the deal.

The United Nations has stressed the complexity of distributing humanitarian aid, citing infrastructure challenges and security concerns.

Nonetheless, the World Food Programme has commenced delivering essential supplies, aiming to reach a million people quickly.

While the initial response to the ceasefire is hopeful, questions remain regarding the long-term stability of the agreement and further phases of negotiation.

Concerns were raised regarding the potential resumption of hostilities and the comprehensive recovery of hostages remaining in Gaza.

The next phase of negotiations, which is expected to start shortly, will focus on addressing these challenges and maintaining the fragile peace achieved through this truce.