Hamas released the 20 hostages held in Gaza today, seven of whom were released early this morning and the remaining 13 were released a few hours later and handed over to the International Red Cross.

In a statement published on the official website of the Presidency of the Republic, Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa "welcomes the release of the Israeli hostages in Gaza, including Portuguese nationals," without specifying how many, "emphasising the importance of this first step on the path to a just and lasting peace."

"The ceasefire also constitutes a decisive step in this direction," stated the head of state.

The President of the Republic adds, in the same note, that he "hopes that the next steps will materialise as foreseen in President Trump's Peace Plan and that it will finally be possible for the two States and the peoples of the region to finally see the future with hope and in peace."