In the fourth phase of the hostage release agreement, the Palestinian resistance group Hamas has freed two more Israeli citizens, bringing the total number of hostages released so far to 17.
According to Arab media reports, the two freed hostages, Ofer Calderon and Yordan Bibas, were handed over to the Red Cross in Khan Yunis as part of the ongoing ceasefire and prisoner exchange deal. Meanwhile, a third Israeli hostage, Keith Siegel, is expected to be released later as per the agreed-upon schedule.
Exchange of Hostages: Israel to Release 183 Palestinian Detainees
As per the agreement, Israel will release 183 Palestinian prisoners in exchange for the three Israeli hostages. This follows previous phases of the hostage-prisoner exchange, where both parties have gradually fulfilled their commitments under the Gaza ceasefire agreement.
Breakdown of the Hostage Release Agreement
Since the start of the temporary ceasefire, Hamas and Israel have engaged in multiple phases of hostage and prisoner swaps:
- First Phase
- Hamas released three Israeli women.
- Israel freed 90 Palestinian detainees.
- Second Phase
- Hamas released four Israeli women.
- Israel freed 120 Palestinian prisoners.
- Third Phase
- Hamas released eight hostages, including five Thai nationals.
- Fourth Phase (Ongoing)
- Two Israeli citizens, Ofer Calderon and Yordan Bibas, have been released.
- A third Israeli hostage, Keith Siegel, is set to be freed soon.
- Israel will release 183 Palestinian detainees today.
Significance of the Hostage Deal
The hostage-prisoner exchange agreement is seen as a crucial step in de-escalating the ongoing conflict in Gaza. Mediators, including Qatar, Egypt, and the United States, have played a significant role in ensuring that both parties comply with the terms of the ceasefire.
Gaza Ceasefire and Humanitarian Efforts
The temporary truce has also allowed humanitarian aid to reach Gaza, where thousands of civilians are facing severe shortages of food, water, and medical supplies. The Red Cross and other international organizations have been actively involved in facilitating these hostage transfers and ensuring safe passage for released individuals.
While the current ceasefire has provided some relief, tensions remain high. Negotiations are ongoing to extend the truce and secure the release of more hostages and prisoners. However, concerns persist over whether both sides will uphold their commitments beyond the agreed terms.
As the fourth phase of the agreement unfolds, the international community continues to monitor developments, hoping for a long-term resolution to the crisis.