Gaza Ceasefire Deal: Over 100 Palestinian Prisoners Freed as Israel-Hamas Swap Continues
Gaza Ceasefire Deal: Over 100 Palestinian Prisoners Released in Exchange for Israeli Hostages
Gaza witnessed an emotional homecoming as more than 100 Palestinian prisoners, recently freed from Israeli jails, returned to the war-torn region on Saturday. The prisoners, part of a larger exchange agreement between Israel and Hamas, were welcomed by cheering crowds as they crossed into Gaza.
The release of 183 Palestinian detainees by Israel was facilitated under a temporary ceasefire deal brokered by Qatar, Egypt, and the United States. In return, Hamas released three Israeli hostages—Or Levy, Ohad Ben Ami, and Eli Sharabi—who had been held captive since October 7, 2023. The three hostages were immediately taken to Israeli medical facilities for evaluation and reunited with their families after enduring 16 months in captivity.
Prisoners Released Amid Reports of Mistreatment
The Palestinian Prisoners’ Club, an advocacy group, reported that seven of the freed detainees required hospitalization due to alleged mistreatment during their incarceration. The organization cited claims of “brutality” in Israeli prisons, further fueling tensions in the ongoing conflict.
This latest exchange marks the fifth such prisoner swap since the temporary ceasefire began last month. In total, the deal has resulted in the release of over 250 hostages and prisoners on both sides.
Next Phase of Ceasefire Negotiations Underway
With the truce still in place, diplomatic efforts are shifting towards negotiations for the next phase of the ceasefire. While discussions are set to resume, no significant updates on progress have been reported yet. The ultimate goal remains a permanent cessation of hostilities in the region.
Meanwhile, international reactions have been stirred following remarks by former U.S. President Donald Trump, who suggested that the United States should take control of the Gaza Strip and relocate its inhabitants. His statement has drawn widespread criticism from global leaders and human rights organizations.
Humanitarian Toll of the Conflict
The war, which erupted following Hamas’s October 7 attack, has resulted in staggering casualties. Reports indicate that over 48,000 people, predominantly civilians in Gaza, have lost their lives, while more than 1,200 Israelis have been killed. The humanitarian crisis continues to escalate, with international aid groups calling for immediate intervention.
As the ceasefire holds for now, the world watches closely, hoping for a breakthrough that could bring lasting peace to the region.
