HAMAS freed four Israeli servicewomen.

HAMAS handed over four Israeli military hostages to the Red Cross

Four servicewomen, Karina Ariev, Daniela Gilboa, Naama Levi, and Liri Elbag, were handed over to the Red Cross by HAMAS. They appeared on stage in Gaza City before their release, dressed in military uniforms and holding bags of gifts received from HAMAS. They are currently being transported to the Israel Defense Forces and Shin Bet in the Gaza Strip for their release.

On October 7, 2023, all four servicewomen were kidnapped from a post in the kibbutz Nahal Oz.

Today, Israel is set to release 200 Palestinian prisoners, including 121 individuals serving life sentences. 70 of these prisoners will be deported outside of Gaza and the West Bank according to a HAMAS statement.

Israel insists that Palestinians convicted of killing Israelis should be permanently deported if they are released under the ceasefire agreement and should not be allowed to return to their homes in the West Bank or Gaza.

Agreement between Israel and HAMAS

On January 19, Israel announced the start of a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip after HAMAS provided a list of the first hostages. The beginning of the ceasefire regime was announced at 11:15.

Israel and HAMAS reached a ceasefire agreement that includes an initial six-week phase of the truce. The agreement also involves the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza and the release of hostages in exchange for Palestinians. The agreement was reached after prolonged negotiations mediated by Egypt, Qatar, and the USA. It came into effect on January 19.