Hamas releases four Israeli soldiers, Israel frees 200 Palestinian prisoners amid fragile ceasefire

Gaza ceasefire: Hamas releases 4 Israeli soldiers in exchange for 200 Palestinian prisoners

Hamas militants handed over four female Israeli soldiers to the Red Cross in Gaza City on Saturday as part of a fragile ceasefire agreement. The exchange involved 200 Palestinian prisoners, marking a significant step in the truce brokered by Egypt and Qatar between Israel and Hamas.

The freed soldiers—Karina Ariev, Daniella Gilboa, Naama Levy, and Liri Albag—were seen waving and smiling as they appeared on stage in Gaza City’s Palestine Square. They were later escorted by the Red Cross to vehicles that transported them to Israeli forces. The crowd, joined by militants, gathered in large numbers to witness the event.

Prisoner exchange details

In exchange for the soldiers, Israel released 200 Palestinian prisoners, including individuals convicted of deadly attacks against Israelis. Among them were Mohammad Odeh and Wael Qassim, who had carried out the 2002 bombing at Hebrew University, killing nine people. These prisoners were transported to Egypt as part of the ongoing ceasefire arrangements.

Tensions over delayed hostage release

A civilian hostage, Arbel Yehoud, was not released as planned, causing tensions between the two sides. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office emphasized that Palestinians would not be permitted to return to northern Gaza until Yehoud’s release was confirmed. Hamas officials attributed the delay to technical issues, promising her release in the coming week.

Ceasefire’s impact

The ceasefire, initiated on January 19, has temporarily paused months of airstrikes and combat. Both Israel and Hamas are negotiating further terms, including the possibility of additional hostages being freed and a potential Israeli withdrawal from Gaza. Despite the cautious optimism, families of captives remain anxious, and the situation in Gaza remains dire.

Reactions in Israel

The release sparked emotional scenes across Israel. In Tel Aviv’s Hostages Square, hundreds gathered to celebrate the return of the soldiers. Prime Minister Netanyahu’s office released footage of the freed hostages being welcomed at an army base. Liri Albag was seen making a heart shape with her hands before departing in a van.

However, many expressed concern for those still held captive. Yoni Collins, a family friend of a remaining hostage, shared their apprehensions, highlighting the ongoing uncertainty.

Hope amid devastation

The truce has offered a rare reprieve from violence, yet Gaza remains devastated, with widespread displacement and infrastructure in ruins. While the ceasefire has brought a temporary halt to hostilities, the human toll of the conflict continues to weigh heavily on all sides, leaving hopes for lasting peace uncertain.

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