In a significant development towards peace, Hamas has released six detainees on Saturday, February 22, marking the seventh exchange of hostages and detainees under the ongoing Gaza ceasefire agreement with Israel.
Hazem Qassem, a Hamas official, stated that the decision was made to ensure the success of the first phase of the ceasefire agreement and to prepare for the upcoming second phase. This move is also in response to the continued mediation efforts by the involved parties.
\"We are committed to making the ceasefire agreement a success,\" Qassem said. \"In the second phase, we aim to release all captives in exchange for an end to Israel's operations in Gaza.\"
The swap is seen as a step towards de-escalating tensions in the region, with both sides expressing cautious optimism about the prospects of sustained peace.
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Live: Seventh swap of hostages and detainees under Gaza ceasefire deal
cgtn.com
