Hamas releases four Israeli hostages in second swap

The Palestinian militant movement Hamas released four female Israeli soldier hostages on Saturday, in return for some 200 Palestinian prisoners, in keeping with a ceasefire agreement aimed at ending the 15-month-old war in Gaza.

The four hostages were led onto a podium in Gaza City amid a large crowd of Palestinians and surrounded by dozens of armed Hamas men. They waved and smiled before being led off, entering ICRC vehicles and being transported to Israeli forces.

Hundreds of Israelis gathered at the so-called Hostages Square in Tel Aviv, crying, embracing and cheering as they watched the handover on a giant screen.

The four soldiers – Karina Ariev, Daniela Gilboa, Naama Levy and Liri Albag – were all stationed at an observation post on the edge of Gaza and abducted by Hamas fighters who overran their base during the Hamas attack on Israel on Oct. 7, 2023.

“At this hour, the parents are meeting their daughters at the reception facility in Re’im. We completed all necessary check-ups and preparations for their arrival. We’re ready to receive them and provide the appropriate initial response,” Hagari said.

“We appreciate and thank the efforts of all international mediators,” Hagari continued, adding “We expect them to make sure Hamas stands in accordance with the agreement.”