The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) has said release operations must be carried out “safely and with dignity”.

“The ceasefire agreement reached between Israel and Hamas must mark a turning point in two years of unimaginable horror. It offers a vital chance to save lives and ease suffering,” ICRC president Mirjana Spoljaric said in a statement.

“ICRC teams in Israel, Gaza, and the West Bank will support its implementation by helping to return hostages and detainees to their families,” the post added.