As part of a fragile ceasefire, Hamas militants in Gaza released four Israeli female soldiers on Saturday. In exchange, Israel released 200 Palestinian prisoners, including individuals convicted of deadly attacks, marking a critical moment in the ongoing conflict.
The four Israeli soldiers—Karina Ariev (20), Daniella Gilboa (20), Naama Levy (20), and Albag (19)—were paraded in Gaza City before being handed over to the Red Cross. Captured during Hamas’ Oct. 7 attack on the Nahal Oz military base, they had reportedly endured brutal conditions during captivity.
Israel freed 200 Palestinian prisoners, including 121 serving life sentences. Among those released were individuals convicted of attacks on Israelis, such as Mohammad Odeh and Wael Qassim, accused of involvement in the 2002 Hebrew University bombing.
- In Gaza City, large crowds witnessed the release of the Israeli soldiers under Hamas’ control.
- In Ramallah, West Bank, thousands celebrated the return of Palestinian prisoners, waving flags and chanting slogans.
Egypt played a key mediating role in facilitating the ceasefire and prisoner exchange. Around 70 of the released Palestinians were sent to Egypt.
The ceasefire aims to de-escalate the ongoing conflict, though tensions remain high. This exchange highlights the significant human toll of the conflict, with both sides making strategic concessions under international pressure.
Earlier this month, Hamas leader Khalil al-Haya reportedly pledged another attack similar to the October 7 massacre during a press conference, shortly after a ceasefire agreement was announced. Al-Haya, revealing himself as Hamas’ leader following the death of Yahya Sinwar in October 2024, described the deadly assault as a “source of pride” for the Palestinian people, according to multiple reports.