Hamas releases four Israeli female military hostages to Red Cross

Four released female soldiers appeared on stage set up by Hamas in Gaza City Square before their release.

"All four are dressed in military-style uniforms and holding 'gift bags' given to them by Hamas. They are taken from the stage straight into the Red Cross vehicles," the publication reports.

The Red Cross is now delivering the hostages to the Israeli Defense Forces and Shin Bet in the Gaza Strip. On October 7, 2023, all four were kidnapped from a post in the Nahal Oz kibbutz.

In turn, Israel is expected to release 200 Palestinian prisoners today, including 121 individuals who were serving life sentences.

According to Times of Israel, citing Hamas' statement, 70 of the 200 Palestinian prisoners that Israel is set to release today will be deported outside Gaza and the West Bank.

Israel has stated that Palestinians convicted of killing Israelis should be permanently deported if they are released under the ceasefire agreement and will not be allowed to return to their homes in the West Bank or Gaza.

Agreement between Israel and Hamas

Hamas has approved an agreement with Israel regarding the release of hostages in the Gaza Strip and a ceasefire. The release of the first three hostages, which occurred about a week ago, was not without complications.

On January 18, Israel was supposed to receive the names of the first three hostages to be released. However, Israel did not receive the list by the specified deadline.

Netanyahu's office stated that Hamas was delaying the delivery of the hostages' lists, which could delay the implementation of the agreement. However, on January 19, Hamas did release the three Israeli hostages.

On January 24, Hamas released the names of four Israeli female hostages, with their release scheduled for today, January 25.