Hamas Releases Three Hostages as Israel Begins 183 Palestinian Prisoner Release Under Ceasefire Deal

In a significant development aimed at easing tensions, Hamas has released three Israeli hostages as part of a ceasefire agreement, prompting Israel to initiate the release of Palestinian detainees.

The hostages—identified as Yarden Bibas, French-Israeli national Ofer Kalderon, and American-Israeli citizen Keith Siegel—were handed over to the Red Cross in two separate operations. Bibas and Kalderon were freed in the southern city of Khan Younis, while Siegel, appearing frail, was released in northern Gaza City. Their return has been met with relief among their families and the Israeli public.

In response, Israel has begun releasing Palestinian prisoners in accordance with the ceasefire deal. A bus carrying 32 detainees departed Ofer Military Prison en route to the West Bank, while an additional 150 prisoners were scheduled for release to Gaza or deportation. According to Palestinian sources, a total of 183 individuals are set to be freed, including those serving lengthy sentences and over 100 Gaza residents who were detained after the escalation on October 7, 2023.

This exchange marks a crucial step in the fragile ceasefire negotiations, which have temporarily halted over a year of intense hostilities. While the deal has been welcomed internationally, concerns remain about its long-term sustainability, with both sides maintaining cautious positions amid ongoing diplomatic efforts to secure a lasting peace.