Israeli army says 5 Thai hostages released, Red Cross confirms

Ceasefire secure for now but next phase expected to be more challenging

20250130 One of five Thai hostages

One of five Thai hostages who has been held by Hamas in Gaza since October 2023 is handed over to the Red Cross in Khan Younis on Jan. 30. © AP

KHAN YOUNIS, Gaza Strip (AP) -- The Israeli army says the Red Cross has confirmed that it has seven hostages -- two Israelis and five Thai nationals.

Their release is part of a ceasefire that began Jan. 19. It is aimed at winding down the deadliest and most destructive war ever fought between Israel and the Hamas militant group.

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