Hostages Held by Hamas Released After Over Two Years in Captivity
After over two years in captivity, 20 hostages held by Hamas in Gaza are being released in a prisoner exchange, marking a significant step in the Israel-Hamas conflict.
- • Twenty hostages held by Hamas since October 7, 2023, are being released after more than two years in captivity.
- • Seven hostages were initially released and received by the Israeli military with medical personnel accompanying them during transit.
- • The release is part of a prisoner swap involving over 1,900 Palestinians in Israeli prisons, marking the first phase of a U.S. peace plan.
- • Notable released hostages include Ariel Cunio, David Cunio, and twin brothers Gali and Ziv Berman, among others captured from the Nova music festival and nearby areas.
Key details
Twenty individuals held hostage by Hamas in Gaza since October 7, 2023, have begun to be released after more than two years of captivity. Early Monday morning, seven hostages were retrieved by the Red Cross and received by the Israeli military. They were promptly taken to a military base in Israel, where their families awaited them. Medical personnel accompanied the hostages during their transfer, and once at the base, they received welcome packages containing clothing, phones, and computers from Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office. The hostages were then transported by helicopter to a hospital in Tel Aviv for medical evaluation.
The released hostages include notable figures such as Ariel Cunio (28) and David Cunio (35) from kibbutz Nir Oz, twin brothers Gali and Ziv Berman (both 28) from kibbutz Kfar Aza, as well as soldier Matan Angrest and Israeli-Argentinian citizen Eitan Horn. Many others were captured from the Nova music festival and homes near the Gaza border during the initial Hamas attack. Another group of 13 hostages is expected to be released later the same day.
This release is part of a prisoner exchange deal, whereby over 1,900 Palestinians held in Israeli prisons will be freed in return. This prisoner swap marks the first phase of a U.S. peace plan aimed at easing tensions in Gaza. The hostages' condition after their prolonged captivity remains uncertain, heightening the significance of their safe return.
The release underscores a pivotal moment in the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict, offering hope for further diplomatic progress amid prolonged hostilities. The humanitarian operation, facilitated by the Red Cross, reflects international involvement in resolving one of the conflict's most painful chapters.