A pivotal ceasefire agreement between Israel and the Palestinian group Hamas has led to the release of four Israeli soldiers by Hamas in exchange for 200 Palestinian prisoners.

This development follows a week after the ceasefire was put into effect, signifying a critical phase in the ongoing peace efforts.

The Israeli female soldiers, identified as Liri Albag, Naama Levy, Karina Ariev, and Daniella Gilboa, were aged between 19 and 20. They had been held captive for 15 months following their abduction during a surprise attack carried out by Hamas on October 7, 2023. The attack resulted in approximately 1,200 fatalities.

Their release took place in the Gaza Strip, where they were handed over to representatives from the International Committee of the Red Cross.

Subsequently, the soldiers were transported back to Israel by a special military unit to undergo medical evaluations before reuniting with their families.

Arrangements have been made for them to receive further care at a clinic near Tel Aviv.

In response to these releases, Israel freed 200 Palestinian prisoners held in detention, who were transported from the Ofer military prison in the occupied West Bank.

Palestinian sources have reported that from the released group, 70 individuals are to be deported to Egypt, 16 are to return to the Gaza Strip, and the remaining detainees are to be released within the West Bank.

This prisoner exchange is part of a ceasefire agreement set to last six weeks, with this operation representing the second set of releases under this deal.

Previously, three civilian women were freed by Hamas.

Israeli authorities estimate that about 90 individuals abducted on October 7 remain in Gaza.

Of these, 30 have been declared deceased.

Under the terms of the ongoing agreement, for each Israeli soldier released, Israel will free 50 Palestinian prisoners.

The total agreement foresees the release of 1,904 Palestinian detainees in exchange for 33 hostages.

During the exchange, the released Israeli soldiers were seen smiling as they were handed over to the Red Cross in Gaza in a public setting, before being transported back to Israel.

Celebrations erupted in Tel Aviv with supporters displaying solidarity through messages such as 'You are not alone' in support of those still in captivity.

A spokesperson for the Israeli military, Daniel Hagari, commented on the returns, noting the dual nationality of some of those released.

In the forthcoming week, further releases of hostages and prisoners are expected as part of this broader ceasefire deal.