The first three hostages held by Hamas and some prisoners held by Israel are scheduled to be exchanged following the cessation of hostilities Sunday.

After 15 months of a grueling war that has claimed tens of thousands of lives, Israel and Hamas agreed to phase one of a ceasefire deal on Wednesday. The agreement will create a pause in fighting that will allow critical aid to reach Gaza, and begin an exchange of hostages held in Gaza and Palestinian prisoners held by Israel.

A Hamas official said on Monday the Palestinian militant group would next release hostages on Sunday, a day later than expected under a complex ceasefire accord reached this month with Israel. Nahed Al-Fakhouri,