Israel has confirmed the return of three hostages released by Hamas as part of a negotiated exchange, marking a significant yet emotionally charged development in the ongoing conflict.
On Saturday, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) announced that Ohad Ben Ami, Eli Sharabi, and Or Levy were handed over to the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), which then facilitated their transfer to Israeli territory. Upon arrival, they were received by IDF and Shin Bet personnel for immediate medical evaluations. Family members and officials expressed deep concern over their frail physical condition, a stark reminder of the hardships endured during captivity in Gaza.
Hamas’ Staged Propaganda Display
Prior to their release, Hamas orchestrated a public spectacle, compelling the three hostages to participate in a propaganda event. According to reports from The Times of Israel, the captives were paraded on stage while a masked Hamas operative delivered a speech. They were forced to hold certificates of release, standing before banners in Arabic, Hebrew, and English that read: “We’re the flood, the war’s next day.” The phrase, seemingly directed at U.S. President Donald Trump, follows his recent declaration that the U.S. would “take over” Gaza.
Emotional Reunions & Calls for Further Action
The distressing sight of the hostages’ frail state deeply impacted their families. Michal Cohen, the mother of Ohad Ben Ami, described the heartbreaking moment she saw her son, noting how dramatically he had aged. Tal Levy, the brother of Or Levy, also voiced concern over his sibling’s emaciated condition but emphasized the urgency of ongoing efforts to secure the release of all remaining hostages.
The Hostages and Missing Families Forum echoed these sentiments, stating that the images of the freed captives serve as undeniable evidence of the urgency to negotiate the release of those still held in Gaza.
Prisoner Exchange: Israel Prepares for Palestinian Releases
As part of the negotiated deal, Israel has agreed to release 183 Palestinian security prisoners from Keziot Prison in the Negev and Ofer Prison in the West Bank. This group includes:
- 18 prisoners serving life sentences, with seven set for deportation.
- 111 detainees arrested in Gaza amid the ongoing war.
- 72 prisoners from the West Bank and East Jerusalem.
U.S. Response: Rubio Reiterates Trump’s Demands
Meanwhile, in Washington, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio reaffirmed President Donald Trump’s strong stance on the hostage crisis. The U.S. has demanded Hamas immediately release all hostages, a position that continues to shape diplomatic efforts in the region.
As the situation unfolds, the return of the three hostages has intensified pressure on both Israeli and international stakeholders to push for further negotiations, ensuring the safe release of all captives still in Hamas’ custody.
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