In a significant development amidst ongoing tensions between Israel and Hamas, seven hostages were released in Gaza on Thursday. Among them were two Israeli citizens who will soon reunite with their families and five Thai nationals who will receive medical treatment. This release is part of a broader ceasefire deal brokered by Qatar, Egypt, Iran, Turkey, and the United States. However, the release has not been without complications, as chaotic scenes during the process have led to a delay in the freeing of Palestinian prisoners.
Norwegian Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide highlighted the dire situation in Gaza, emphasizing the essential role of UNRWA in providing much-needed assistance. The Norwegian government has committed $24 million to support this effort, despite Israel's ban on UNRWA operations within its territory.
“Gaza is in ruins, and Unrwa’s help is more necessary than ever,” said Espen Barth Eide.
The release of hostages was a tightly coordinated effort involving multiple nations. Turkey's spy agency played a key role in securing the release of the Thai nationals held by Hamas. Paetongtarn Shinawatra, expressing relief at the news, stated:
“Elated to get confirmation from our Thai Ambassador in Israel who informed me on the phone just now that five of our Thai nationals were indeed released today from Gaza.”
The Thai foreign ministry has called for the swift release of all remaining hostages, including a Thai national, so they may return to their homeland.
“Thailand calls for the release of all the remaining hostages including a Thai national soonest, so they can safely return to their homeland and to their beloved families,” stated the Thai foreign ministry.
The recent releases were part of a complex agreement that also involved the planned release of an American hostage later this week. However, the release ceremony in Gaza was marred by chaos as scores of armed men escorted the released Israelis to be handed over to the Red Cross for repatriation. Hamas orchestrated the spectacle, even providing a military uniform for a female soldier. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed outrage over these events.
“I view with utmost severity the shocking scenes during the release of our hostages. This is additional proof of the inconceivable brutality of the Hamas terrorist organization,” said Benjamin Netanyahu.
The chaotic scenes prompted Israel to halt the release of Palestinian security prisoners. Netanyahu demanded assurances from mediators to prevent such incidents from recurring.
“I demand that the mediators make certain that such terrible scenes do not recur, and guarantee the safety of our hostages. Whoever dares to harm our hostages will pay the price,” he added.
An Israeli spokesperson confirmed that the prime minister and minister of defense instructed a delay in releasing Palestinian prisoners until mediators could ensure the safe exit of future hostages.
“The prime minister and the minister of defence have instructed to delay the release of the terrorists until the mediators guarantee the safe exit of the hostages in the next releases,” said an Israeli spokesperson.
Despite these tensions, Netanyahu's office announced that commitments have been secured from mediators for future safe releases.
“Following prime minister (Benjamin) Netanyahu’s request, the mediators have provided a commitment guaranteeing the safe release of our hostages who will be freed in the next phases,” stated Netanyahu's office.
The backdrop to these events includes a grim history of abductions. On October 7, 2023, Hamas abducted 31 Thais, with 23 released by year's end and two confirmed dead in May. The news of recent releases brought relief to many families.
“It is confirmed everyone, my son did not die. Thank you God,” expressed Wiwwaeo Sriaoun, reflecting a sentiment shared by many families awaiting news of their loved ones.