Israeli media, carrying live footage from Qatar-based Al Jazeera, is showing the first images of the first three hostages to be released. They are seen walking between vehicles as their convoy moves through Gaza City.

By The Associated Press A ceasefire in the Gaza Strip took effect on Sunday following an almost three-hour delay after Hamas was late to name the three hostage it plans to release. The

The first stage of a truce between Israel and Hamas prompted celebrations in Gaza and hope for an end to the 15-month war. Three Israeli hostages were expected to be freed on Sunday, along with dozens of Palestinian prisoners.