Middle East updates: Israel-Lebanon ceasefire extended to Feb. 18

Israel, Lebanon and the U.S. are negotiating the release of Lebanese prisoners.

ByDavid Brennan, Nadine El-Bawab, Jon Haworth, Kevin Shalvey, and Bill Hutchinson
Last Updated: January 26, 2025, 7:39 PM EST

A ceasefire between Israel and Hamas in Gaza went into effect a week ago. Hostages held in the strip and Palestinian prisoners in Israeli jails have started to be released under the multi-phased deal.

Meanwhile, the November ceasefire in Lebanon is holding despite ongoing Israeli airstrikes on Hezbollah targets, which Israeli officials say are responses to ceasefire violations by the Iranian-backed militant group. Israeli forces also remain active inside the Syrian border region as victorious rebels there build a transitional government.

Tensions remain high between Israel and Iran after tit-for-tat long-range strikes in recent months and threats of further military action from both sides. The IDF and the Yemeni Houthis also continue to exchange attacks.

Latest headlines:

Here's how the news is developing.
Jan 25, 2025, 5:02 AM EST

Hostages now on Israeli territory after being released in Gaza

The Four returning hostages -- Daniella Gilboa, Liri Albag, Naama Levy and Karina Ariev -- have crossed into Israeli territory with IDF and ISA Forces, according to a statement from the Israel Defense Forces and the Israel Security Agency.

"A short while ago, accompanied by IDF and ISA forces, the four returning hostages crossed the border into Israeli territory," the statement read. "The returning hostages are currently on their way to an initial reception point in southern Israel, where they will be reunited with their parents."

Jan 25, 2025, 4:50 AM EST

Hostages now with IDF, on the way to Israel

Four female hostages, who appeared to be wearing IDF uniforms and carrying paper bags, were just escorted by Palestinian fighters out of vehicles to a stage in the square, where they were seen smiling and waving at the cheering crowd. They were then escorted into the Red Cross vehicles, which are now slowly driving out of the crowded square.

"The Israeli government embraces the four returning Israel Defense Forces soldiers," according to a statement from the Israeli Prime Minister’s Office. "Their families have been informed by the designated authorities that they have joined our forces. The Israeli government is committed to the return of all abducted and missing persons."

Jan 25, 2025, 4:02 AM EST

Red Cross convoy arrives at Palestine Square in Gaza City

A Red Cross convoy has entered Palestine Square in Gaza City,

This comes as a large crowd of Hamas fighters and vehicles have also gathered ahead of the expected hostage release.

There is currently no indication of the presence of the hostages.

Hamas is expected to release Karina Ariev, 20; Daniella Gilboa, 20; Naama Levy, 20; and Liri Albag, 19. In exchange, Israel will release 200 Palestinians being held in prisons.

Jan 25, 2025, 2:09 AM EST

IDF prepares for hostage release

The IDF says they have completed preparations for Saturday's hostage release from Gaza, according to a statement.

"IDF completes preparations for the absorption of abductees returning to Israel from the Gaza Strip ahead of the second exchange," the statement read. "The IDF, led by the Human Resources and Medical Corps, has completed its preparations for the second time to absorb abductees returning to Israel from the Gaza Strip."

"The Human Resources and Medical Corps has established and trained initial absorption points where medical care and personal escort will be provided. After that, the returnees will proceed to hospitals and meet with their families."

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