Israel-Hamas Exchange: Four Female Soldiers Freed After 477 Days
Israeli Soldiers Released After 15 Months in Hamas Captivity
After 477 days in captivity, four female Israeli soldiers – Karina Ariev, Daniella Gilboa, Naama Levy, and Liri Albag – were released by Hamas as part of a prisoner exchange agreement. This marked a moment of immense relief and joy for their families and the Israeli public. Here are the details:
#Hamas handed over 4 #Israeli female captives to the Red Cross. They are truly smiling. I think these women must have been treated well. pic.twitter.com/Lt4Sa5659j
— freezer77 (@engingurgur) January 25, 2025
Hamas Releases Four Israeli Soldiers
Karina Ariev (20), Daniella Gilboa (20), Naama Levy (20), and Liri Albag (19) were held hostage by Hamas in Gaza for over a year. The exchange, coordinated by the International Committee of the Red Cross, took place in Gaza City. During the handover ceremony, the four soldiers were seen standing hand-in-hand before finally being transferred to Israeli officials.
Prisoner Exchange: 200 Palestinian Convicts Released
In return for the release of the Israeli soldiers, Israel freed 200 Palestinian prisoners, some of whom were serving life sentences. Hamas announced the list of released prisoners through its Telegram channels, marking this as the second phase of the cease-fire deal between the two sides.
The Bibas Family’s Continued Wait
One significant controversy surrounding this exchange is the absence of 2-year-old Kfir Bibas, who was kidnapped with his family in October 2023. His family expressed concern, stating, “We will consider nothing final until our loved ones cross the border.” The family urged the public to avoid spreading rumors during this sensitive time.
Joy and Relief in Israel
The release of the four soldiers was met with widespread celebration across Israel. The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) stated, “The commanders and soldiers of the Israel Defense Forces salute and embrace the returning hostages as they make their way home to the State of Israel.” The released soldiers are set to undergo medical evaluations upon their return.
Uncertain Future of the Cease-Fire
While the exchange represents a significant step in the temporary Gaza cease-fire, the future of this fragile truce remains uncertain. Both sides have expressed concerns over the agreement’s implementation, but for now, the priority remains the safe return of remaining captives and the continuation of humanitarian efforts.