In a significant development, three Israeli hostages were released by Hamas, marking a tense exchange between the militant group and Israel. The hostages, Or Levy, Eli Sharabi, and Ohad Ben Ami, had been held captive for 491 days and were handed over to the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) officials in Deir al-Balah, central Gaza Strip. This exchange came as part of an agreement wherein Israel agreed to release 183 Palestinian prisoners and detainees on Saturday. This incident further highlights the ongoing conflict and differing perspectives on Hamas between Israelis, who view them as terrorists, and Palestinians, who see them as freedom fighters against Israeli occupation.
The released Israeli hostages were described as being in poor physical condition, appearing "weak, emaciated, and pained." During the handover, masked Hamas militants paraded them on stage in what was perceived as a provocative act. Israel's President Isaac Herzog strongly condemned this treatment, describing it as a "crime against humanity."
"This is what a crime against humanity looks like! The whole world must look directly at Ohad, Or, and Eli – returning after 491 days of hell, starved, emaciated and pained – being exploited in a cynical and cruel spectacle by vile murderers," said Isaac Herzog.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu also expressed his outrage at the condition of the hostages. He emphasized that Israel would not overlook the disturbing images of the hostages upon their return.
"Will not gloss over the shocking scenes that we saw today," stated Benjamin Netanyahu.
The release of the three Israeli hostages was facilitated by a complex negotiation process involving both parties. In exchange for their freedom, 183 Palestinian prisoners and detainees were to be released by Israel. These individuals include 18 serving life sentences and 111 detained in Gaza during the recent conflict. Most of these Palestinian prisoners were captured following the October 7 attack in 2023. The released prisoners are slated to be transported to the West Bank and Gaza.
The Israeli army confirmed the safe reception of the hostages, marking their preparation for return to Israeli territory. Meanwhile, a bus carrying the freed Palestinians has already departed from Ofer prison towards its destination.
In Tehran, Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei held discussions with acting Hamas leader Khalil al-Hayya and other Hamas leaders. This meeting underscores the broader geopolitical dimensions of the conflict.
The release operation has drawn global attention, shedding light on the harsh realities faced by those involved in such conflicts. It also emphasizes the complex dynamics between Israel and Hamas, particularly concerning prisoner exchanges.