The deal was met with celebration in Gaza, which has been decimated in the war that began with the Hamas attacks on Israel, and prompted hopes that a fight that has transformed the Middle East will come to an end.

Ceasefire in Gaza that was expected to begin today hit delays, possibly stalling the hostage release; the Israeli military continued attacks

The first three hostages were released Sunday after the ceasefire officially began. A total of 33 hostages will be released in the first phase of the deal.