Israel has confirmed the safe return of three Israeli hostages released by Hamas on Saturday as part of a delicate ceasefire agreement. The freed hostages—Eli Sharabi (52), Ohad Ben Ami (56), and Or Levy (34)—were handed over to the Red Cross and subsequently received by Israeli forces. They will undergo medical evaluations before reuniting with their families after spending 16 months in captivity.
Hamas Releases Hostages in Exchange for Prisoners
The hostage release is part of an ongoing exchange deal in which Hamas has agreed to free Israeli captives in return for the release of Palestinian prisoners from Israeli jails. In response, Israel is set to release 183 Palestinian prisoners, including individuals serving long-term sentences and those detained following the October 7 Hamas attack.
Saturday’s swap marked the fifth such exchange since the temporary ceasefire, which began on January 19. Before this latest release, 18 hostages and more than 550 Palestinian prisoners had already been freed. The first phase of the ceasefire agreement involves the release of 33 hostages and nearly 2,000 Palestinian detainees.
Public Release and Emotional Reunions
The freed hostages appeared visibly weak and pale as they were escorted by armed Hamas militants from a white van onto a stage in Deir al-Balah, a town in central Gaza. Before their release, they were made to make public statements in front of a large crowd—an unprecedented move in this phase of the hostage exchange.
Relatives of the hostages expressed relief and joy at their return. Or Levy’s brother, Michael, shared that Levy’s young son, Almog, was informed of his father’s release. “Mogi, we found daddy,” he said, recalling the child’s happiness.
The Fate of the Remaining Hostages
More than 70 Israeli hostages remain in Gaza, with at least 34 believed to have died in captivity or during the October 7 attack. While Israel is pressing for their release, Hamas is expected to use the remaining hostages as leverage in future negotiations.
Ceasefire Uncertainty as Political Tensions Rise
The ceasefire, currently holding, is expected to last until early March. However, uncertainty looms over the next phase of negotiations, which will determine whether the truce is extended and whether more hostages will be released. Hamas has stated that it will not release additional captives unless Israel commits to a permanent ceasefire and full withdrawal from Gaza.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government remains divided on the issue, with far-right coalition members calling for an immediate resumption of military operations. Meanwhile, Hamas has reasserted its control over Gaza despite Israel’s efforts to weaken the group.
Global Reactions and Future Implications
U.S. President Donald Trump’s recent suggestion to relocate Palestinians out of Gaza has further complicated the situation. While Israel welcomed the idea, it has been widely condemned by Palestinians and the international community, with rights groups arguing that forced displacement would violate international law. Hamas may resist further hostage releases if it perceives a serious threat of population displacement.
With the first phase of the ceasefire agreement nearing completion, all eyes are now on whether Israel and Hamas can negotiate a lasting truce or whether hostilities will resume in March.
Sources By Agencies
