Hamas releases two Israeli hostages in exchange for 602 Palestinian prisoners

Hamas has released two Israeli hostages, Tal Shoham and Avera Mengistu, who were handed over to the Red Cross in Rafah. They appeared frail in a video released by Hamas. Israel confirmed their transfer and is prepared for more hostages to be released. In exchange, Israel will release 602 Palestinian prisoners, including many serving long sentences. Six additional hostages are expected to be freed soon. Family and friends are gathering in Tel Aviv to welcome Shoham and Mengistu home. Separately, Israel confirmed the murder of Shiri Bibas and her two young children by Hamas. Their remains were identified after a failed attempt to return them earlier. This incident highlights the ongoing violence and loss stemming from the October 7 attack.