Hamas released four Israeli women soldiers following nearly 16 months of captivity in Gaza. The hostages—IDF soldiers Liri Albag, 19; Daniella Gilboa, 20; Karina Ariev, 20; and Naama Levy, 20—were among seven female soldiers abducted from the Nahal Oz base during Hamas’ brutal attack on October 7, 2023, which claimed the lives of over 1,200 people.
During the attack, 250 were taken hostage by Hamas. In retaliation, Israel launched a heavy bombing campaign, which has resulted in at least 45,000 deaths, as per Gaza health officials.
4 Israeli Women Soldiers Freed by Hamas
The freed Israeli women soldiers were brought in military uniform and were seen waving as they stood at the podium. They were handed over to Red Cross members.
BREAKING: Hamas has handed over four Israeli female soldiers previously held in Gaza to the Red Cross. The exchange, taking place in north Gaza, marks the second under the ceasefire agreement, with 200 Palestinian prisoners scheduled for release in return. - red.
This is the second exchange under the ceasefire deal between Israel and Gaza. As per the deal, Israel will now free a group of Palestinian prisoners although the exact number has not been specified by Tel Aviv.
Hamas said that 200 prisoners will be released as part of the swap- which are expected to include members of Hamas, Islamic Jihad, and the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine (PFLP), with some serving life sentences.
The IDF announced that it has completed its preparations for the hostages’ return, with the Manpower Directorate and Medical Corps coordinating initial reception points where the freed captives will undergo medical evaluations and receive support before being transported to hospitals for further care and family reunions.
Hamas had previously released three Israeli civilians in exchange for 90 Palestinian prisoners.
The ceasefire announcement was negotiated by three countries: Qatar, Egypt and the United States. US President Donald Trump claimed full credit for the ceasefire deal as he posted on his social media platform Truth Social, “This EPIC ceasefire agreement could have only happened as a result of our Historic Victory in November.”
