The Israel-Hamas cease-fire will be implemented on Sunday, and its implications will be closely monitored.
The release of 3 hostages marks the beginning of the first phase of the deal, which will last 42 days.
On Sunday morning at 8:30 a.m. local time in Israel, which is 1:30 a.m. ET, three female hostages are expected to be released after the cease-fire agreement between Israel and Hamas goes into effect.
On Saturday at 8 p.m. ET, Israel was still awaiting the release of hostages.
On Saturday morning, Israel's Cabinet approved a cease-fire in Gaza and the release of Israeli hostages captured after Hamas' unprovoked attack on Israel on Oct. 7, 2023.
The first phase of the deal commences on Sunday with the liberation of the initial three hostages and endures for 42 days.
A total of 33 hostages will be released during that time, with priority given to children, women, female soldiers, people over 50, and sick or injured men. Additionally, more than 1,000 Palestinian prisoners will be sent back to Gaza.
The identities of most of the Israeli hostages are yet to be revealed, although it's believed that they are still alive and will be released soon.
On day seven, four more hostages will be released, with priority given to women. Additionally, three more hostages will be freed on day 14.
On days 28 and 35, three more hostages will be released.
Avera Mengistu and Hisham al-Sayed, two hostages held in Gaza since 2014 and 2015, will be released between days 35 and 42.
In the last week of phase one, 12 hostages will be released.
On the 16th day of Phase One, negotiations will commence for Phase Two, which is anticipated to involve the liberation of all remaining Israeli captives, including youths, soldiers, and fallen warriors.
Phase Two will start on day 43 and last another 42 days.
The Israeli government has decided that the Israel Defense Force will remain in Gaza until all hostages are released, but they will withdraw to a security zone along the Gaza border that ensures the safety of residents living there.
The IDF's Southern Command is still refining a new defense strategy.
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