In a statement released on the official United Nations (UN) website, Guterres expressed his relief and satisfaction at learning that these people have regained their freedom and “will be reunited with their loved ones after the immense suffering they have endured.”

He also called for the release of the bodies of the deceased hostages and urged “all parties to seize this momentum and fulfill their commitments to end the nightmare in Gaza.” The UN is working to support all efforts to end the conflict and alleviate the suffering of the civilian population, he stated.

Many Palestinians gathered early in the morning around Ofer Prison to welcome their compatriots, but were attacked by Israeli security forces with tear gas, according to Arab television footage.

The list of names released by Israel sparked criticism among Palestinians, especially Hamas, because it does not include seven high-profile prisoners.

This morning, Hamas handed over to the International Committee of the Red Cross the 20 surviving Israelis still being held by Palestinian militias since the October 7, 2023, attack.

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