Freeing of detainees, including top terrorists, goes ahead after Israel says mediators guarantee future 'safe passage' of hostages; Witkoff 'hopeful' deal's next stages will go ahead

This trip comes as negotiations for the second phase of the truce between Israel and Hamas are set to begin, with the US envoy to the Middle East expressing optimism going forward

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Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff becomes the first U.S. official to visit Gaza in more than a decade, ahead of a meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu about the second phase of the Israel-Hamas ceasefire.

As both United States President Joe Biden and President-elect Donald Trump try to take credit for Israel and Hamas agreeing to a ceasefire deal in Gaza, a relatively unknown political newcomer in Trump’s incoming team has emerged as a key figure in sealing the deal.

Follow NBC News live updates for the latest coverage of the ceasefire and hostage release deal between Israel and Hamas.

Steve Witkoff, President Donald Trump’s Middle East envoy, said on Wednesday that he welcomed the potential for “a dialogue” with Hamas and heaped praise on Qatar for helping facilitate the cease-fire deal between Israel and Gaza, despite facing scrutiny for previous ties to the Gulf nation.

Israel and Hamas are set to carry out their third exchange of hostages and prisoners on Thursday as part of a ceasefire agreement that has halted fighting in the Gaza Strip. Hamas is due to release three Israelis and five Thai citizens. Israel is releasing 110 Palestinian prisoners.

After taking US envoy Steve Witkoff on an "excellent tour" of Gaza, Israeli officials hope he will persuade President Donald Trump of their vision for Gaza's future.

Reporter Amy Spiro discusses aftermath of Thursday releases, Mideast envoy Steve Witkoff's visit with released surveillance soldiers and in Hostages Square, Netanyahu's trip to US The post Daily Briefing Jan.

The release of the three comes amid pressure to continue the ceasefire, including from US Middle East Envoy Steve Witkoff during his visit to Israel this week.