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Hamas released four Israeli female soldiers on Saturday in a second wave of hostage releases under a fragile ceasefire agreement. The women, who had been held since the October 7 attacks, were handed over in a dramatic public display in Gaza City. In exchange, Israel released 200 Palestinian prisoners, including 121 individuals serving life sentences, in a move fraught with emotional and political tension.
The freed hostages—Karina Ariev, Daniella Gilboa, Naama Levy, all 20, and Liri Albag, 19—are in stable condition and are undergoing medical assessments at Beilinson Hospital. Their families expressed relief and joy, with hundreds of Israelis gathering near the hospital to welcome their return.
Hamas staged the handover with a strong show of force, waving flags and displaying provocative posters criticizing Israeli leadership. The event, streamed live, struck a nerve in Israel, where emotional scenes unfolded in Tel Aviv as citizens watched the soldiers' release.
However, the process has not been without complications. Israel accused Hamas of failing to uphold its commitment to prioritize the release of civilian hostages. This became a flashpoint when Arbel Yehud, a 29-year-old Israeli civilian, was not included in Saturday's release. Hamas disputes Israel’s claim, alleging Yehud is a soldier, which has fueled further tension.
Meanwhile, the exchange has stirred powerful emotions among Palestinians. Released detainees were met with jubilant celebrations in Ramallah, with supporters hoisting them onto shoulders and waving Palestinian flags. Among those freed were individuals linked to deadly attacks, sparking outrage in parts of Israel.
In a separate development, displaced Gazan families attempting to return to northern Gaza were met with Israeli warning shots, highlighting the volatile situation. The Israeli military maintains it will not permit movement into northern Gaza until Yehud is released or her release process begins.
The fragile ceasefire deal underscores the deeply entrenched complexities of the conflict. While the releases have brought moments of relief and celebration for both sides, they also reveal the persistent challenges of achieving lasting peace in the region.
*Source: CNN
