With the releases, Israelis basked in a joyous moment of unifying national redemption after months of agonizing, polarizing war.

While major questions remain about the future of Hamas and Gaza, the exchange of hostages and prisoners raised hopes for ending the deadliest war ever between Israel and the militant group.

The final 20 remaining living hostages taken by Hamas on Oct. 7, 2023, were returned to Israel on Monday as part of an exchange for Palestinian prisoners held by Israel, officials said. Some Palestinians in the Gaza Strip,

Cheers, cries and Hebrew songs rang out in Tel Aviv as Israel confirmed that the hostages held by Hamas returned home.

Bereaved Israeli families express anger that the remains of only four out of 28 deceased hostages were handed over during Monday's exchange.

Palestinians are celebrating as Israel has released nearly 2,000 Palestinians from prison in exchange for Hamas’ freeing of Israeli hostages

Hamas has released all 20 remaining hostages as part of a ceasefire agreement with Israel, ending two years of conflict in the Gaza Strip

As celebrations and tearful reunions broke out in Israel on Monday as the last 20 living hostages returned home, similar joyful scenes emerged across the Gaza Strip as buses carrying freed Palestinian prisoners entered the war-torn territory.