Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu Celebrates Release of Hostages in Gaza Ceasefire
Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu Celebrates Release of Hostages in Gaza Ceasefire
In Tel Aviv, Israel, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has reaffirmed his commitment to securing the release of all hostages following the release of three Israeli women by Hamas. This release is part of the first phase of a significant Gaza ceasefire agreement. The women had been held captive for 471 days since the attack by Hamas militants on October 7, 2023, which resulted in over 1,200 deaths and more than 200 abductions.
During Israel's counter-offensive, over 46,000 Palestinians have been killed in Gaza. Previously, over 100 hostages were freed during a weeklong ceasefire in November 2023. The current ceasefire deal was announced last week.
Government's Commitment
In a post on social media, the Prime Minister stated, "The Government of Israel embraces the three women who have returned. Their families have been updated by the relevant authorities that they are with our forces." He emphasized the government's commitment to returning all hostages and missing individuals.
Statements from the IDF
Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari, spokesperson for the Israel Defense Forces, expressed joy at the release, stating, "Today, as part of these ongoing efforts, we welcomed home three hostages, three young women, after 471 days in Hamas captivity." The released women are Romi Gnen, Emily Damari, and Doron Steinbrecher.
Hagari detailed their abductions: Emily Tehila Damari and Doron Steinbrecher were taken from Kibbutz Kfar Aza, while Romi Gonen was abducted from the 'Nova' music festival. Each marked a birthday in captivity. The women are now receiving medical care and will soon reunite with their families.
Future Plans
The first stage of the agreement is expected to last approximately 42 days, with three to four hostages being released each week. The Prime Minister's Office confirmed the implementation of the ceasefire and hostage release deal, which began at 11:15 am local time. This marks the start of efforts to secure more hostage releases and provide aid to Gaza.
Doubts Revealed
Netanyahu
Benjamin Netanyahu is the Prime Minister of Israel, which is a country in the Middle East. He is a leader who makes important decisions for his country.
Hostages
Hostages are people who are captured and held by someone, usually to get something in return. In this case, three Israeli women were held by a group called Hamas.
Gaza
Gaza is a small area of land where many people live, and it is located near Israel. It often appears in the news because of conflicts between different groups.
Ceasefire
A ceasefire is an agreement to stop fighting for a certain period of time. It is like a pause in a battle to try and solve problems peacefully.
Hamas
Hamas is a group that has control over Gaza and sometimes fights with Israel. They captured the three women who were later released.
IDF
IDF stands for Israel Defense Forces, which is the military of Israel. They protect the country and its people.
Rear Admiral
A Rear Admiral is a high-ranking officer in the navy, which is a part of the military that operates at sea. Daniel Hagari is a Rear Admiral in the IDF.
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