Hamas says it has released hostage holding Russian citizenship

Hamas said on Sunday it had released a hostage from Gaza who held Russian citizenship over to the International Red Cross, adding that it had taken the action in appreciation of Moscow’s position.

It was unclear if this was connected to a deal struck between Israel and Hamas that began on Friday.

Under the terms of the four-day truce, Hamas would free 50 Israelis, including women and children, it took hostage on October 7, and in return Israel would release 150 Palestinian prisoners from its jails, including women and teenagers.