WHAT'S HAPPENING Hostage exchange holds key to Gaza peace deal

The Gaza peace deal hinges on both sides adhering to an agreement to exchange hostages seized from Israel in Hamas's October 7, 2023, attack for Palestinians held in Israeli jails.

- GAZA CITY

Hamas said it would begin releasing Israeli hostages held in Gaza today, ahead of a midday deadline under the terms of the ceasefire agreement proposed by Trump.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed hopes his country could mark a “day of national joy” from Monday night, once all living and deceased hostages are returned.

Ceasefire deal 'complexities'

Hamas has agreed to the initial stage of the Gaza ceasefire deal, which includes the release of 48 Israeli hostages in exchange for 250 Palestinian prisoners and 1,700 Gazans held by Israel since the war broke out.