In a significant development following the ceasefire in the Israel-Gaza conflict, five Israeli hostages have been released in a prisoner swap with Palestinian prisoners. The captives, who were Thai nationals working in Israel, had been held by Palestinian militant group Hamas for over two months.

The exchange took place at the Erez border crossing, with United Nations officials overseeing the process. The Israeli government agreed to release a number of Palestinian prisoners in return for the hostages.

Prime Minister Rivka Goldstein expressed relief at the safe return of the hostages, thanking all parties involved in the negotiations. She also reiterated Israel's commitment to achieving peace in the region through diplomatic means.

The release of the hostages marks a positive step towards de-escalating tensions between Israel and Gaza. The ceasefire, brokered by the UN and other international mediators, has been holding despite sporadic incidents of violence.

As the region remains cautiously optimistic about the prospects for lasting peace, the release of the hostages serves as a glimmer of hope for a more stable future for both Israelis and Palestinians.