Hamas, the Palestinian movement, has handed over a hostage with Russian citizenship to the Red Cross. This development comes as a result of the efforts made by Russian President Vladimir Putin, according to spokesperson Taher al-Nunu, the head of Hamas’ political bureau.
The release of the hostage, who held Russian citizenship, by Hamas is seen as a response to the request made by the Russian side. Israeli channel 12 had previously reported that Hamas might release a Russian-Israeli hostage on November 26, following the request from Russia.
On November 22, Israel and Hamas agreed to a ceasefire and the release of some hostages. The first stage of the deal involves a four-day ceasefire and the exchange of 50 prisoners held in Gaza for 150 Palestinian prisoners in Israeli jails. Additional individuals may be released in the second stage. For every 10 hostages released, the ceasefire will be extended by one day. Hamas has also promised to release two Russian female captives immediately after the cessation of hostilities.
The ceasefire agreement officially came into effect on November 24.
Earlier, Russians who had left the Gaza Strip shared their experiences of living in a war zone.
