Hamas Releases Second Group of Hostages to Red Cross Amid Ceasefire Delays

Gaza City, Palestine – The Palestinian Islamic Resistance Movement, known as Hamas, announced on Saturday the handover of a second group of Israeli and foreign hostages to the International Red Cross.

According to Philippines News Agency, the group consisted of 17 individuals, including 13 Israelis and four Thais. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed via a post on its official account that the hostages had crossed into Egypt and were en route to Israel. This transfer marks the second instance of hostage release in exchange for Palestinian prisoners.

The exchange, initially scheduled for around 4 p.m. local time on Saturday, faced delays. Hamas accused Israel of not adhering to the terms of a four-day humanitarian ceasefire, which was established between the two parties on Wednesday after over six weeks of intense conflict.