Big news out of the Middle East: Hamas is set to free eight hostages this Thursday, marking the third such release since Israel and the group agreed to a six-week pause in fighting. This move is part of a larger deal that could eventually bring an end to the ongoing war in Gaza.

The planned release includes three Israelis and five Thai nationals who have been held captive for over a year. The Israeli government shared the update late Wednesday, with Hamas confirming through social media that the three Israelis—Gadi Moses, Arbel Yehud, and Agam Berger—would be let go. The names of the Thai citizens haven’t been disclosed yet.

In exchange for these hostages, Israel is expected to free more than 100 Palestinian prisoners, some of whom are serving life sentences for deadly attacks against Israelis. This swap is part of a broader agreement that has already seen several hostages and prisoners return home.

This release is a significant step in a multiphase truce that mediators hope will lead to lasting peace. The conflict, which has claimed over 45,000 lives in Gaza, according to local health officials, has been devastating for both sides.

The current six-week ceasefire includes a commitment from Hamas to free at least 33 of the remaining 97 hostages in exchange for Israel releasing over 1,500 Palestinian prisoners and partially withdrawing from Gaza. Arbel Yehud, one of the last living women held hostage, was initially set to be freed last week. When that didn’t happen, Israel delayed allowing displaced Palestinians to return to their homes in northern Gaza. After mediators intervened, her release was secured, and the process resumed.

As the delicate truce continues, all eyes are on whether this agreement will hold and pave the way for a more permanent resolution. Stay tuned for updates on this unfolding story.