In a significant development, Israel has confirmed the release of four female soldiers held hostage by Hamas since the October 7 attack. The soldiers, Karina Ariev, Daniella Gilboa, Naama Levy, and Liri Albag, are set to be returned as part of an ongoing ceasefire agreement. Despite expectations, Arbel Yehud, a civilian hostage, is not included in this release. Yehud is believed to be held by Palestinian Islamic Jihad, complicating her release.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu conducted a situational assessment with defense officials, leading to the decision to proceed with the release. The four soldiers were among seven kidnapped from the Nahal Oz military base, where they served as lookouts for the Israel Defense Forces (IDF). The remaining soldiers, including Agam Berger, are still held in Gaza.
Videos of the soldiers' kidnapping highlighted the brutality of the October 7 attack. The footage, released by the families, pressured the Israeli government to negotiate their release. The IDF acknowledged its failure to protect its personnel during the attack.
Hamas and its allies continue to hold 91 people from the October 7 incident, along with three hostages taken in 2014. In total, 251 individuals were captured on that day. The ceasefire deal includes Israeli troop withdrawal from parts of Gaza and increased humanitarian aid to the region.
Israel is a country in the Middle East, located on the eastern shore of the Mediterranean Sea. It is known for its historical and religious significance.
Hamas is a Palestinian organization that governs the Gaza Strip. It is involved in political and military activities and has had conflicts with Israel.
A ceasefire is an agreement between two groups to stop fighting for a certain period. It is often used to allow for negotiations or humanitarian aid.
A hostage is a person who is captured and held by someone, usually to force others to do something in exchange for their release.
Benjamin Netanyahu is a political leader in Israel who has served as the Prime Minister. He is responsible for making important decisions for the country.
Nahal Oz is a military base in Israel. It is one of the places where soldiers are stationed to protect the country.
Gaza is a small region along the Mediterranean coast, part of the Palestinian territories. It is governed by Hamas and has been a site of conflict with Israel.
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *