Hamas Releases Israeli Hostages as Peace Discussions Intensify

Hamas has returned its remaining Israeli hostages to the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) in Gaza, marking a significant development in the ongoing conflict. On Monday, the ICRC facilitated the transfer of hostages to the Israeli military, generating emotional scenes in Tel Aviv’s Hostages Square where thousands gathered to celebrate their return.

Among those reunited with their loved ones was Viki Cohen, whose son, Nimrod Cohen, was among the released. “I am so excited. I am full of happiness. It’s hard to imagine how I feel this moment. I didn’t sleep all night,” she expressed as she headed to the Israeli military camp in Reim, where the hostages will receive medical attention.

The Israeli military confirmed the initial return of seven living hostages, with an additional thirteen confirmed to have been handed over by Hamas. Alongside the hostages, the bodies of some of the 28 deceased hostages, as well as two individuals whose status remains unclear, are also set to be released. This operation coincides with the release of nearly 2,000 Palestinian detainees and convicted prisoners currently held in Israel.

Ceasefire Agreement and International Discussions

The handover is a crucial aspect of a ceasefire agreement reached last week at a summit in the Egyptian resort of Sharm el-Sheikh. This meeting involved discussions between key global leaders, including US President Donald Trump, who is set to address a conference later on Monday aimed at establishing broader stability in the Middle East.

In Gaza, masked members of Hamas’ armed wing were present at Nasser Hospital, where preparations were made to celebrate the return of Palestinian prisoners. Emad Abu Joudat, a father of six from Gaza City, voiced hopes for peace, stating, “I hope that these images can be the end to this war. We lost friends and relatives, we lost our houses and our city.”

The ceasefire agreement was mediated by the United States, Egypt, Qatar, and Turkey. The next phase involves the establishment of an international body, dubbed a “Board of Peace,” with Trump at the helm. Negotiations for a lasting peace depend on commitments made by global leaders during the summit, but potential obstacles remain, particularly concerning the governance of Gaza post-conflict and the future of Hamas.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was present at the airport to welcome Trump, marking the latter’s significant visit to Israel where he will be honored with the nation’s highest civilian award later this year.

Humanitarian Crisis and Ongoing Conflict

The ongoing conflict has led to devastating consequences in Gaza, with the region currently facing a humanitarian disaster. The two years of warfare have rendered nearly all of Gaza’s 2.2 million inhabitants homeless. According to health officials, more than 67,000 Palestinians have died as a result of the conflict, which was ignited by a Hamas attack on October 7, 2023, that claimed approximately 1,200 lives in Israel.

As the hostages are brought to the Reim camp, crowds gather along the roads, waving Israeli flags adorned with yellow ribbons symbolizing hope for the hostages. The family of released hostage Matan Angrest expressed their gratitude to Trump, stating, “We can breathe again. Our Matan is home!”

In connection with the prisoner releases, approximately 1,968 Palestinian detainees were transported by bus, with the majority expected to be freed at Nasser Hospital. This group includes Gazans detained during the conflict and approximately 250 prisoners convicted of serious offenses related to security.

The armed wing of Hamas reiterated its commitment to the ceasefire and the terms of the deal, contingent on Israel’s adherence. Following the unsuccessful military operations to free the hostages, Israel has agreed to this exchange.

UN aid chief Tom Fletcher acknowledged that Israel had approved the delivery of emergency supplies, while the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) urged for unhindered access to operate within Gaza.

As the situation continues to evolve, attention remains focused on the discussions among world leaders and the potential for a sustainable resolution to a conflict that has reshaped the region.