Following a ceasefire agreement enacted almost a week prior, Hamas released four more hostages from Gaza on Saturday. This marks the second instance of hostage releases since the agreement with Israel came into effect.
The freed hostages, all members of the Israeli Defense Forces, are Karina Ariev (20), Daniella Gilboa (20), Naama Levy (20), and Liri Albag (19). They were among those abducted during the Hamas attack on Israel on October 7, 2023.
In return, Israel is anticipated to release 200 Palestinian prisoners and detainees. This group includes 120 militants serving life sentences for convictions related to deadly attacks.
The initial hostage release, which took place on Sunday, saw the liberation of Romi Gonen, Emily Demari, and Doron Steinbrecher.
From left: Daniella Gilboa, Karina Ariev, Liri Albag, Naama Levy. (Handout/Bring Them Home Now)
Footage from Palestine Square in Gaza captured the four women being escorted from vehicles. They appeared to be in good health and were dressed in uniform.
A joint statement from the IDF and Israeli Securities Authority confirmed the Red Cross's involvement in the transfer, stating the hostages were en route to IDF and ISA forces within the Gaza Strip.
A subsequent statement confirmed the hostages had crossed the border into Israel and were being transported to a reception point in southern Israel for reunification with their families.
Released hostage Naama Levy reunites with her parents after 477 days. (IDF Spokesman's Unit)
Upon their return, the hostages received preliminary medical evaluations.
The IDF expressed their support for the returning hostages on social media.
It's believed the four female soldiers were held together, at least for a period.
Families reunite with the released hostages.
The Hostages and Missing Families Forum Headquarters released a statement celebrating the return and acknowledging the ongoing efforts to bring home the remaining hostages. They expressed gratitude to former President Trump for his role in facilitating the deal.
The ceasefire stipulates the release of 33 hostages over six weeks, including those already freed, in exchange for hundreds of Palestinian prisoners held by Israel. Hamas agreed to a phased release: three on the first day, four on the seventh day, and the remaining 26 over the following five weeks.
This marks the second ceasefire reached since the conflict began over a year ago.
The 15-month war in Gaza was initiated by a surprise attack from Hamas on October 7, 2023, triggering Israeli retaliation. Close to 100 hostages are still held captive in Gaza.
