Sat Feb 15 09:30:00 UTC 2025: ## Three More Hostages Released in Gaza Ceasefire Deal
**JERUSALEM** – A fragile ceasefire between Israel and Hamas continues to hold after the release of three more hostages on Saturday. Alexander (Sasha) Troufanov (Israeli-Russian), Sagui Dekel-Chen (American-Israeli), and Yair Horn (Israeli-Argentinian) were freed in exchange for over 300 Palestinian prisoners, as part of a phased agreement. This brings the total number of hostages released in the first phase to 36.
The release follows the initial exchange of 33 Israeli hostages for nearly 2,000 Palestinian prisoners. However, approximately 70 hostages remain in Hamas custody, with many feared dead. The majority of the remaining hostages are male, and include Israeli soldiers.
The delicate ceasefire agreement faces a critical test. Former U.S. President Donald Trump has reportedly warned that the situation will deteriorate if Hamas doesn’t release all remaining hostages this week. He has also reiterated his commitment to the U.S. taking over Gaza and resettling Palestinians elsewhere. The second phase of the agreement, which requires the release of all remaining hostages and an indefinite ceasefire extension, remains a point of significant contention and could trigger a resumption of hostilities if no agreement is reached. Egypt has reportedly released a plan to rebuild Gaza, but without mentioning any U.S. cooperation.
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