Thirteen Israeli hostages and four foreign nationals have been released from captivity in the Gaza Strip, the Israeli military has said.

It said in a statement: “According to the information that was received by the IDF, 17 hostages were released, including 13 Israeli hostages and four Thai hostages.

“The released hostages’ convoy is currently making its way through Egypt to the meeting point at Kerem Shalom. 

“Security representatives will verify the list at the meeting point with the released hostages. 

“The families of the hostages are being updated by IDF representatives with the latest available information.”

Earlier, Qatar’s foreign ministry said eight Israeli children and five women were being released tonight.