With the releases, Israelis basked in a joyous moment of unifying national redemption after months of agonizing, polarizing war.

The 20 remaining living hostages were released Monday in return for almost 2,000 Palestinian prisoners and detainees.

The faces of the hostages being held in Gaza stare down from every street corner in Israel on posters now sun-faded and ripped.

Israel-Hamas live updates: Families wait for hostage release as aid agencies prepare to deliver relief Fuel, medical supplies and other critical materials have started flowing into Gaza, U.N. officials say, while thousands are returning to Gaza City to assess the damage to their homes.

Preparations are under way for a ramp-up of aid entering the Gaza Strip under a ceasefire deal many hope will signal an end to the devastating two-year war. The Israeli defence body in charge of humanitarian aid in Gaza,