Local reports indicate that dozens have died in Gaza due to violent clashes on Sunday, which occurred hours before the anticipated hostage release in the war-scarred area.

These conflicts among local militias arise just before a televised statement where Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu deemed the imminent hostage release as “the beginning of a new path.”

The Israeli president had cautioned, “The campaign is not over. There are still very great security challenges ahead of us.”

Locals said gunfire had sent families fleeing in panic. 

At least 64 people reportedly died in Gaza fighting. (Hassan Jedi/Anadolu via Getty Images)

Hamas’s Interior and National Security Ministry later announced a “clemency framework” for militia members and criminals not involved in violence to surrender by the following Sunday, cautioning that non-compliance will lead to “severe punishment.”

In the midst of the chaos, three anti-Hamas militias openly supported President Trump’s peace plan, denouncing Hamas’s rule in the Gaza Strip.

Israel said Hamas is expected to release 20 living hostages to the Red Cross by 5 a.m. Eastern (noon in Gaza) Monday.

The hostages are to be transported in six to eight vehicles overseen by the Red Cross, then handed to Israeli forces inside Gaza, after which they will be taken to southern Israel to reunite with their families.

Fox News Digital has reached out to the Israeli Government for comment.

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