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Hamas-led militants freed eight hostages on Thursday as part of the ceasefire in the Gaza Strip, but the chaotic handover, which saw masked gunmen pushing captives through a massive crowd, prompted an angry response from Israel.
Israel had been set to release 110 Palestinian prisoners, including about 30 serving life sentences for attacks on Israelis. However, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu delayed the exchange, demanding guarantees from mediators that future hostage releases would be conducted securely. He later said that such assurances had been provided but did not confirm whether the prisoner releases would proceed. Israeli media reported that they were expected to take place.
Why It Matters
The temporary ceasefire has provided a reprieve from hostilities, allowing for hostage exchanges and humanitarian relief efforts. However, the situation remains fragile, with both sides maintaining hard-line stances. Hamas has insisted on a full Israeli withdrawal from Gaza in future negotiations, while Israeli leaders continue to call for the militant group's destruction. The current truce has enabled displaced Palestinians to return home, though much of northern Gaza has been reduced to rubble after months of war.
The first hostage, Agam Berger, a 20-year-old female soldier, was released in the Jabaliya refugee camp, where Hamas displayed her before a smaller crowd. Hours later, seven more captives were released in Khan Younis in an event marked by disorder. Hundreds of Hamas and Islamic Jihad militants arrived in a convoy, surrounded by thousands of onlookers.
Video footage showed hostage Arbel Yehoud, 29, appearing stunned as masked militants moved her through the crowd. Also released were 80-year-old Israeli hostage Gadi Moses and five Thai laborers: Watchara Sriaoun, 33; Pongsak Tanna, 36; Sathian Suwankam, 35; Bannawat Seathao, 27; and Surasak Lamnau, 32.
Twenty-three Thai hostages were previously released in a November ceasefire, though Israel says three remain in captivity, with two believed dead.
Scenes of Joy in Tel Aviv and Tension at Border
In Tel Aviv, crowds erupted in applause as images of Berger's release appeared on large screens, with signs reading, "Agam, we're waiting for you at home." The Red Cross has facilitated the transfers, arriving at designated sites in Jabaliya and Khan Younis, where militants and onlookers gathered to witness the process.
How Did the Current Conflict in Gaza Start?
The conflict was triggered by Hamas' Oct. 7, 2023, attack on Israel, which claimed the lives of approximately 1,200 people. Israel's war against Hamas in Gaza has resulted in more than 47,000 Palestinian deaths, according to Gaza health authorities. The figures provided by the ministry do not differentiate between combatants and civilians, although Israel claims to have killed some 17,000 Hamas militants without providing evidence.
What People Are Saying
Khammee Lamnao, the mother of Thai hostage Surasak Lamnau, said: "I cannot wait to see my son, I've been waiting for him."
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on X: "Israel will not tolerate any violation of the agreement. We will continue to act for the return of all of our hostages, the living and the deceased."
What Happens Next?
With Israel expected to proceed with its prisoner release, mediators continue efforts to extend the ceasefire. However, disputes over conditions could threaten future agreements..
This article includes reporting from The Associated Press
About the writer
Amir Daftari is a Newsweek reporter based in London, specializing in global affairs with a focus on the Middle East. ... Read more