Three Israeli Hostages Released in Gaza, 183 Palestinians to be Freed in Fifth Phase Today

Three Israeli Hostages Released in Gaza, 183 Palestinians to be Freed in Fifth Phase Today

Israeli citizens Eli Sharabi (52), Or Levy (34), and Ohad Ben Ami (56) have been released from Deir-el-Balah in Gaza City. Their release is part of the ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas.

The hostages were rescued by members of the International Red Cross. Hamas set up a stage in the city for the handover, with several masked fighters present. In exchange, Israel will release 183 Palestinian prisoners.

Ben Ami and Sharabi were abducted on October 7, 2023, from Kibbutz Be'eri, while Levy was taken that day from the Nova Music Festival. Hamas has announced that three more Israeli hostages will be released today, in return for the release of Palestinian prisoners.

Israelis are gathered at the "Hostages Square" in Tel Aviv, awaiting the transfer process.

This release comes as part of the ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas that began on January 19. In the first phase of the deal, 33 Israeli hostages are expected to be freed.