Israeli hostage hugs mum in emotional reunion after 471 days

The first Israeli hostages have returned home after 471 days in captivity following a fragile ceasefire deal with Hamas.

The ceasefire ushers in an initial six weeks of calm and raises hopes for the release of nearly 100 remaining hostages and an end to the devastating 15-month war, which began on October 7, 2023.

A last-minute delay by Hamas put off the truce’s start by nearly three hours, but the spokesman for Hamas’ military wing later said it was committed to the ceasefire.

Celebrations erupted in Gaza following news of the ceasefire, while similar jubliant scenes took place in Tel Aviv as the trio were released by Hamas.

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