WASHINGTON (TNND) — Hamas released the last 20 living hostages held in Gaza on Monday as part of a ceasefire agreement, marking a significant step in the pause of a two-year conflict that has devastated the region.

The hostages, all men, returned to Israel for reunions with their families and medical evaluations. The bodies of 28 deceased hostages are also expected to be returned, though the timing remains uncertain.

In a parallel move, a convoy of Israeli vehicles, Red Cross jeeps, and buses departed Ofer Prison for the West Bank, carrying some of the 250 long-term prisoners set to be released in the exchange. The buses are headed to Beitunia, where families and friends await their arrival.

In Tel Aviv, families and friends of the hostages erupted in cheers as news broke that the first group of hostages was in Red Cross custody. Tens of thousands of Israelis watched the transfers at public screenings nationwide. Among the released were 28-year-old twins Gali and Ziv Berman, whose reunion was captured in photos released by Israel.

Earlier, as Palestinians awaited the release of prisoners, an Israeli armored vehicle fired tear gas and rubber bullets at a crowd. The incident followed the distribution of a flier warning against supporting "terrorist organizations." Israel's military did not comment to the Associated Press on the flier.

The exchange of hostages and prisoners has raised hopes for ending the deadliest conflict between Israel and Hamas. The ceasefire is expected to bring a surge of humanitarian aid to Gaza, where parts are experiencing famine.

President Donald Trump arrived in the region to discuss a U.S.-proposed deal and postwar plans with other leaders. The war began on Oct. 7, 2023, when Hamas-led militants attacked southern Israel, killing around 1,200 people and taking 251 hostages. Israel's subsequent offensive has resulted in over 67,000 Palestinian deaths, according to Gaza's Health Ministry.

The conflict has left much of Gaza in ruins and displaced about 90% of its 2 million residents. It has also sparked regional conflicts, global protests, and allegations of genocide, which Israel denies.

___

Editor's Note: The Associated Press contributed to this article.