Hamas Releases Four Israeli Soldiers in Ceasefire Exchange

In a significant step under the recently brokered Gaza ceasefire deal, Hamas has released four female Israeli soldiers. The handover took place on Saturday in Gaza City’s Palestine Square, where Red Cross officials received the captives.

As part of the agreement, Israel is expected to release 200 Palestinian detainees from Ofer Prison in the West Bank and Ketziot Prison in the Negev desert.

A Scene of Mixed Emotions

Ahead of the release, dozens of masked fighters from Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad gathered in Palestine Square, joined by a large crowd of onlookers. Representatives from the Red Cross and Hamas signed documents to formalize the exchange before the four captives—identified as Karina Ariev, Daniella Gilboa, Naama Levy, and Liri Albag—were released.

Wearing their military uniforms, the Israeli soldiers waved to the crowd as they were handed over to Red Cross officials. Al Jazeera reporter Ibrahim Al Khaliji described the scene as a “historic moment” for both sides.

Israel Confirms Release

Following the handover, the Israeli army confirmed the soldiers’ return, stating that they were undergoing medical assessments with support from special forces. However, a statement from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office noted that Palestinians would not be allowed to return to northern Gaza until another captive, Arbel Yehoud, is also released.

Palestinian Detainees to Be Released

In return for the Israeli captives, 200 Palestinians are expected to be freed. Among them, 121 are serving life sentences, with the youngest detainee being just 15 years old and the oldest aged 69. Seventy of the detainees are set to be deported, with Egypt temporarily hosting them before their relocation to Tunisia, Algeria, and Turkey.

Hostages Square in Tel Aviv

In Tel Aviv’s Hostages Square, a large crowd gathered to celebrate the release of the soldiers. Faces of the freed captives were displayed on a big screen as people waved Israeli flags and held posters featuring the soldiers’ images.

This exchange marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing ceasefire process, paving the way for further prisoner releases and de-escalation in the region.

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