Tel Aviv, Oct. 13 -- Israel's military confirmed on Monday that seven hostages held by Hamas in Gaza have been handed over to the Red Cross, marking the first phase of a long-awaited release under the ceasefire and hostage-for-prisoner deal.

In a statement, the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) said, "According to information provided by the Red Cross, seven hostages have been transferred into their custody, and are on their way to IDF and ISA forces in Gaza. The IDF is prepared to receive additional hostages who are expected to be transferred to the Red Cross later on."

The release marks a breakthrough in the two-year conflict between Israel and Hamas. It follows a ceasefire and exchange agreement brokered with international mediation involv...