Hamas has released three additional hostages on Saturday as part of a ceasefire agreement with Israel, exchanging them for dozens of Palestinian prisoners.
The released individuals, Or Levy, 34; Eli Sharabi, 52; and Ohad Ben Ami, 56, were taken captive during the Hamas attack on October 7, 2023, which ignited the ongoing war in Gaza.
These hostages were freed in Deir al-Balah, located in the central region of the Gaza Strip. They arrived at the designated handover point via a Hamas vehicle.
Additionally, Red Cross vehicles were present at the site.
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The hostages were visibly altered by their ordeal, appearing thin and weak. Israeli leaders condemned the treatment of the hostages, noting the inhumane conditions they endured.
Israeli President Isaac Herzog stated, “This is what a crime against humanity looks like! The whole world must look directly at Ohad, Or, and Eli—returning after 491 days of hell, starved and suffering—being exploited in a devastating display by brutal captors.”
The Hostages and Missing Families forum emphasized that the release of Ohad, Eli, and Or serves as a painful reminder of the urgent need for action regarding the remaining hostages.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu also reacted to the release, promising that the condition of the released men would not be overlooked, stating, “The horrific scenes we witnessed today will not be ignored.” His office’s statement included a commitment to rescue the remaining hostages, referencing Psalms 31:16, calling for divine intervention against their adversaries.
This marks the fifth occasion since the ceasefire commenced on January 19 that Hamas has released hostages in exchange for prisoners, totaling eighteen hostages and over 550 Palestinian prisoners released thus far.
The ceasefire has temporarily halted the 15-month conflict in Gaza, which was triggered by Hamas’ aggressive actions against the Jewish State, resulting in significant military responses from Israeli forces.
