Four female Israeli hostages have been freed by Hamas after enduring 15 months of captivity in Gaza. The release took place following the detention of the hostages since the Hamas attacks of October 7, 2023. The hostages - Karina Ariev, Daniella Gilboa, Naama Levy, and Liri Albag - were among seven female soldiers kidnapped from the Nahal Oz military base where they served as lookouts observing activity inside Gaza.
During the handover at Palestine Square in Gaza City, the hostages were taken on stage by Hamas militants while dressed in makeshift military uniforms before being handed over to the Red Cross. They were subsequently transferred to the Israeli military and reunited with their families in Israel.
Family members and partners of the freed hostages expressed immense joy at being reunited with their loved ones after months of uncertainty. The families shared their relief and gratitude, with Gilboa's relatives stating their anticipation of embracing her once again.
The hostage handover event was meticulously orchestrated, with Hamas militants displaying a show of strength during the televised event. The Israeli military issued a warning to Gazans not to return north past the Netzarim Corridor until further notice.
Additionally, Israel's prison service confirmed the release of 200 Palestinian prisoners from detention facilities as part of the deal. The prisoners were relocated to different locations in the occupied West Bank and the Negev region.
Israel has been advocating for the release of another civilian hostage, Arbel Yehud, who remains in captivity. The situation surrounding Yehud's release is still unresolved, with conflicting claims regarding her status as a civilian or a soldier.
