How many hostages are still in Gaza after the Hamas and Israel ceasefire?

A man rides a bicycle with a child past a billboard featuring portraits of Israelis hostages held in the Gaza Strip since the October 7, 2023 attack (Picture: AFP)

Families of dozens of hostages trapped under Israel’s bombardments in Gaza are clinging to hope for their return amid a deal meant to end the war.

For them, a ceasefire is not just a political milestone – after the 15-month massacre that has left more than 66,000 Palestinians and 1,200 Israelis killed, and inflamed the Middle East – it is a lifeline.