Hamas released seven hostages into the custody of the Red Cross on Monday, the first to be released as part of a ceasefire in the Israel-Hamas war. There was no immediate information on their condition.
Hamas has said 20 living hostages will be exchanged for over 1,900 Palestinian prisoners held by Israel.
Families and friends of hostages broke out into wild cheers as Israeli television channels announced that the hostages were in the hands of the Red Cross.
Tens of thousands of Israelis are watching the transfers at public screenings across the country, with a major event being held in Tel Aviv.
The packed crowd in Hostages Square erupted in cheers as the names of the hostages to be released were read on local television. They clapped and chanted bring them home now.
Some held Israeli flags with the yellow hostage ribbon on it, others held posters with the faces of the hostages, some clutched their chest and choked back tears.
Meanwhile, Israel President Isaac Herzog said he will present the country’s highest civilian award to his US counterpart Donald Trump for his role in securing the release of hostages from Gaza and helping to end the war.