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Saturday, February 15, 2025

Israel-Hamas Ceasefire Deal Begins with Release of Israeli Hostages, Palestinian Prisoners

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In a pivotal moment marking the start of a fragile ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, three Israeli hostages were released on Sunday. These are the first of 33 hostages expected to be freed during the initial phase of the agreement.

More than seven hours later, Israel reciprocated by releasing 90 Palestinian prisoners and detainees early Monday.

The Red Cross facilitated the release, with the Israeli hostages being handed over to the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) and the Israel Security Authority (ISA) at approximately 5:30 p.m. local time. Shortly afterward, they crossed into Israeli territory, accompanied by special forces from both IDF and ISA.

“The commanders and soldiers of the Israel Defense Forces salute and embrace the released hostages as they make their way home to the State of Israel,” stated the agencies in a joint announcement.

The released hostages have been identified as Romi Gonen, 24, Doron Steinbrecher, 31, and Emily Damari, 28. Photos of the trio were shared by the Hostage and Missing Families Forum on Sunday, highlighting the emotional gravity of the event.

Upon their return to Israel, the hostages underwent initial medical evaluations at a reception point in southern Israel before being airlifted to hospitals for further care.

In a parallel event, a bus carrying dozens of Palestinian detainees left Israel’s Ofer prison near Ramallah, greeted by throngs of Palestinians. Crowds celebrated with fireworks, whistles, and chants of “God is great,” as the detainees, comprising women and teenagers, were welcomed with open arms.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu acknowledged the ordeal endured by the hostages, stating, “I know, we all know, they have been through hell. They are emerging from darkness into light, from bondage to freedom.”

President Joe Biden also expressed relief, noting that the hostages appeared to be in good health. Brett McGurk, the Biden administration’s National Security Council coordinator for the Middle East and North Africa, affirmed that the hostages had been held in deplorable conditions for over 470 days but were now in good hands.

The ceasefire officially began Sunday after a brief delay, during which Israel alleged that Hamas had not provided the names of the first hostages to be released. As the ceasefire took effect, fighter jets and drones withdrew from Gaza’s skies, and aid trucks began entering through the Karem Shalom crossing.

The first phase of the ceasefire involves a structured release schedule: Hamas will release 33 hostages over six weeks, starting with women, children, and older individuals. Concurrently, Israel will free at least 1,700 Palestinian prisoners, including all women and children under 19 from Gaza.

This delicate ceasefire was brokered through intense negotiations involving Qatar, the U.S., and Egypt, with significant contributions from both the outgoing Biden administration and the incoming Trump administration.

President-elect Donald Trump’s team, including incoming National Security Adviser Rep. Mike Waltz, emphasized the deal’s complexity and the strategic pressure applied to secure the agreement. Waltz reiterated the U.S. support for Israel should Hamas violate the terms of the deal.

As the ceasefire holds, displaced Palestinians cautiously return to their homes, hoping for a return to normalcy. Aid organizations like Save the Children are working tirelessly to provide essential supplies and reunite displaced families, underscoring the ongoing humanitarian challenges.

This ceasefire represents a moment of hope amidst a devastating conflict that has claimed thousands of lives on both sides since the war’s onset in October 2023. The coming weeks will be crucial in determining whether this truce can pave the way for lasting peace in the region.

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