In a significant development in the ongoing Gaza conflict, Palestinian militants began handing over three Israeli hostages on Thursday as part of the latest ceasefire deal. This exchange involves trading the hostages for 110 Palestinian prisoners and marks a crucial step towards easing tensions in the region.
Among the released hostages is Agam Berger, a female Israeli soldier who was seen waving to the crowd from a podium in Jabalia, northern Gaza, before being handed over to the Red Cross. Additionally, 80-year-old Gadi Moses and 29-year-old Arbel Yahud, both abducted from Kibbutz Nir Oz during the Hamas-led assault on Israel on October 7, embraced each other at the exchange site in Khan Younis, southern Gaza, as captured in a video released by Hamas ally Islamic Jihad.
The spokesman from the group's armed wing confirmed on Telegram that the procedures to hand over the two Israeli hostages have been completed. An Israeli official informed Reuters that the hostages are expected to be taken to separate hospitals in Israel, pending immediate medical inspections upon their arrival.
Hostages Square in Tel Aviv has become a focal point for Israeli citizens advocating for the release of hostages held in Gaza. To date, three Israeli civilians and four soldiers— all women— have been released under the ceasefire agreement, which commenced on January 19. In return, Israel has released 290 Palestinian convicts and detainees.
The initial Hamas attack on Israel saw over 250 hostages taken, with approximately half released during the previous truce the following month. Since then, others have been recovered, either dead or alive, amidst Israel's extensive military campaign in Gaza, which has resulted in tens of thousands of Palestinian casualties and devastation across the coastal enclave.
Despite these exchanges, Israel continues to hold 90 captives in Gaza, with around 30 individuals declared dead in absentia.
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Palestinian militants begin handover of three Israeli hostages
cgtn.com
