In a significant development, Hamas is set to release three Israeli hostages on Saturday as part of an ongoing ceasefire-hostage deal, according to a statement from the Israeli prime minister's office on Friday.
The exchange involves the release of Ohad Ben Ami, 56, a dual Israeli-German citizen; Eli Sharabi, 52; and Or Levy, 34, who were kidnapped during a Hamas-led attack on southern Israel on October 7, 2023. This marks the fifth hostage-prisoner swap under the initial phase of the ceasefire agreement, which began on January 19.
In return, Hamas has agreed to the release of 183 Palestinian prisoners and detainees from Israeli jails. This group includes 18 individuals serving life sentences, 54 with long-term sentences, and 111 detainees held in Gaza since the onset of the Israel-Hamas conflict. Previously, four swaps have resulted in the release of 18 hostages from Gaza and around 600 Palestinian prisoners.
The first phase of the ceasefire, supported by the United States and mediated by Egypt and Qatar, has thus far held firm despite various challenges. However, concerns have arisen over the stability of the deal, especially following a controversial proposal by former U.S. President Donald Trump. Trump suggested relocating Palestinians from Gaza and transforming the area into the \"Riviera of the Middle East,\" a proposal that Arab states and Palestinian groups have vehemently rejected, labeling it as ethnic cleansing.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, on the other hand, has welcomed Trump's intervention. In response, Israel's defense minister has ordered the military to prepare plans allowing Palestinians who wish to leave Gaza to do so.
Negotiations have already commenced on a second phase aimed at securing the release of the remaining hostages and discussing the complete withdrawal of Israeli troops from Gaza, paving the way for a potential end to the conflict.
The conflict began with the October 7, 2023, attack by Hamas-led gunmen on southern Israel, resulting in the deaths of approximately 1,200 people and the abduction of more than 250 individuals. In retaliation, Israel launched an extensive air and ground offensive in Gaza, which has led to over 47,000 Palestinian fatalities and widespread devastation within the enclave.
As the ceasefire continues, the international community watches closely, hoping that ongoing negotiations will lead to a sustainable resolution and the safe return of all hostages.
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Hamas set to release three Israeli hostages as Gaza ceasefire holds
cgtn.com
