Israeli Hostages Released in Gaza Ceasefire Deal, Thai Nationals Also Freed

GAZA CITY, Gaza Strip – Eight hostages, including three Israelis and five Thai nationals, were released from Gaza on Thursday as part of a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas. The release marks the third phase of a deal aimed at de-escalating tensions following the October 7, 2023, attacks.

Agam Berger, a 20-year-old Israeli soldier, was the first to be handed over to the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) in Jabalia, northern Gaza. Berger, who was kidnapped from the Nahal Oz military base during the Hamas-led assault, was accompanied by IDF special forces upon her return to Israel. She is now undergoing a medical assessment and will reunite with her family.

Two other Israeli hostages, Arbel Yehoud, 29, and Gadi Moses, 80, were also released. Yehoud and Moses were abducted from the Nir Oz kibbutz, one of the hardest-hit communities during the October 7 attacks. The five Thai nationals, whose names have not been disclosed, were among the largest groups of foreign workers affected by the violence.

In exchange, Israel is set to release 110 Palestinian prisoners, including 32 serving life sentences and 30 minors, according to Hamas. The ceasefire deal, mediated by Qatar and Egypt, stipulates the release of 33 Israeli hostages and approximately 2,000 Palestinian prisoners in its first phase.

Osnat Peri, chairwoman of Kibbutz Nir Oz, described the releases as “an exciting moment for us, and another step on the long road to bringing all our loved ones home.” Moses’ family expressed gratitude for the support they received from the Israeli public.

Meanwhile, large crowds gathered in Tel Aviv‘s “Hostage Square” to celebrate the releases. Signs bearing the names and faces of hostages still held in Gaza were prominently displayed, reflecting the mixed emotions of joy and anguish among families.

The handover took place against a backdrop of destroyed buildings in Khan Younis, southern Gaza, near the former home of a Hamas leader killed by Israeli forces in November. Four armed factions participated in the operation, including Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad.

This release follows two previous rounds, with 25 Israeli hostages and an undisclosed number of Palestinian prisoners already freed. The ceasefire deal remains fragile, with both sides accusing each other of violations. The Israeli government has vowed to continue efforts to secure the release of all remaining hostages.