Hamas Frees Four Israeli Soldiers in Major Ceasefire Swap, Israel to Release 200 Palestinians

Tel Aviv (The Uttam Hindu): Hamas has released four Israeli female soldiers as part of a ceasefire agreement announced on January 25, 2025. The soldiers—Karina Ariev, Daniella Gilboa, Naama Levy and Liri Albag—were taken hostage during the October 7, 2023 attack. In return, Israel has agreed to release approximately 200 Palestinian prisoners.

The four soldiers were paraded before a crowd in Gaza before being handed over to the Red Cross. This event marks a significant milestone in the ongoing negotiations aimed at resolving the conflict. The news has brought joy to Tel Aviv where families and friends of the soldiers gathered to celebrate.

This release is part of a broader ceasefire effort that has seen multiple exchanges of hostages and prisoners. Previously, three Israeli hostages were released in exchange for 90 Palestinian prisoners. The current agreement is the result of indirect negotiations facilitated by the United States, Qatar and Egypt. While the situation remains complex with families of other hostages continuing to demand their loved ones' return, the release of these four soldiers is viewed as a step towards easing tensions between the two sides.