In a landmark development for Middle East peace efforts, Hamas transferred 20 surviving Israeli hostages to the Red Cross on Monday under a U.S.-brokered ceasefire agreement. The handover coincided with former U.S. President Donald Trump's visit to Israel ahead of a regional summit aimed at stabilizing Gaza.
Emotional scenes unfolded in Tel Aviv as crowds erupted in cheers and tears upon learning of the releases. While 13 hostages were initially reported freed, Israeli authorities later confirmed all 20 survivors had been transferred. The agreement requires Israel to release nearly 2,000 detainees, including 250 security prisoners convicted of violent crimes.
The breakthrough follows Hamas's October 2023 attack that saw 251 hostages taken, with 1,219 casualties reported. Previous truces secured the release of 204 captives, leaving families of the remaining 47 in prolonged anguish. Under current terms, Hamas must also return the remains of 27 hostages who died in captivity.
Trump, who declared "the war is over" during his Middle East tour, faces scrutiny as both sides navigate post-ceasefire challenges. While Gaza residents welcome reduced hostilities, reconstruction appears daunting with much infrastructure destroyed.
Analysts note the prisoner exchange ratio – 100 Palestinians per Israeli hostage – reflects complex negotiation dynamics. With 1,700 war-related detainees still in Israeli custody, future talks may prove contentious as stakeholders balance humanitarian concerns with security priorities.
