Hamas Transfers Remaining Israeli Hostages to Red Cross in Gaza

Hamas has completed the transfer of its remaining Israeli hostages to the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) in Gaza. This operation occurred on Monday, marking a significant moment in the ongoing conflict. Following the handover, Israel’s military confirmed that it had received the first seven living hostages, prompting emotional scenes in Tel Aviv’s Hostages Square where families rejoiced and embraced one another.

Viki Cohen, the mother of hostage Nimrod Cohen, expressed her overwhelming joy, stating, “I am so excited. I am full of happiness. It’s hard to imagine how I feel this moment. I didn’t sleep all night.” Initial images released by the Israeli military showed six of the hostages standing and appearing to be in good condition. The military also reported that a total of 13 confirmed living hostages had been handed over. In conjunction with the hostages’ release, the bodies of some deceased individuals will also be returned, alongside nearly 2,000 Palestinian detainees and convicted prisoners held in Israel.

Ceasefire Agreement

These releases are part of a ceasefire agreement reached last week in Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt, which involved negotiations facilitated by the United States, Egypt, Qatar, and Turkey. The agreement aims to foster a lasting peace in the region. The next phase involves the establishment of a “Board of Peace” led by US President Donald Trump, who is scheduled to meet with over 20 world leaders later on Monday to discuss further steps towards stability in the Middle East.

In Gaza, preparations for the return of Palestinian prisoners included a public event at Nasser Hospital, attended by masked members of Hamas’ armed wing. Emad Abu Joudat, a Palestinian father, lamented the heavy toll of the conflict, stating, “We lost friends and relatives, we lost our houses and our city.”

The potential for lasting peace remains complex. Key issues still need resolution, such as governance in a post-conflict Gaza and the future of Hamas, which has resisted disarmament as demanded by Israel.

US-Israel Relations

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was present at the airport to welcome President Trump, who will address the Knesset, Israel’s parliament, becoming only the fourth US president to do so. Trump is also set to receive Israel’s highest civilian honor later this year, as announced by Israeli President Isaac Herzog.

Two years of conflict have left Gaza in ruins, with nearly all of its 2.2 million residents displaced. The humanitarian crisis has escalated dramatically, exacerbating tensions in the region, particularly involving Iran, Lebanon’s Hezbollah, and Yemen’s Houthis.

Near the Reim military camp, where hostages are being taken for medical evaluation, crowds gathered, waving Israeli flags adorned with yellow ribbons, a symbol of remembrance for those held captive. The family of hostage Matan Angrest expressed their gratitude, saying, “We can breathe again. Our Matan is home!”

At Israeli prisons, approximately 1,968 Palestinian detainees were expected to be released, including individuals convicted of serious offenses. The armed wing of Hamas reaffirmed its commitment to the ceasefire terms, contingent on Israel’s compliance.

Humanitarian Efforts

In a related development, Tom Fletcher, the UN aid chief, announced on social media that Israel had approved the delivery of additional emergency supplies to Gaza. The United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) has called for unhindered access to operate in the territory.

The conflict ignited following a Hamas attack on October 7, 2023, which resulted in the deaths of approximately 1,200 people in Israel and 251 taken hostage. In retaliation, Israeli military actions have reportedly led to over 67,000 Palestinian fatalities, according to health officials in Gaza.

Criticism of Netanyahu has emerged from various quarters, including families of hostages, who accuse him of prolonging the conflict to maintain support from far-right coalition partners necessary for his political survival.

As the situation evolves, the focus remains on the potential for a durable resolution that addresses the complex and intertwined issues facing both Israelis and Palestinians.