In a significant development in the ongoing conflict, the Palestinian militant group Hamas has announced the release of four female Israeli soldiers as part of a prisoner exchange under a ceasefire agreement. The deal aims to bring an end to 15 months of warfare in Gaza.
The Hostages
- Karina Ariev
- Daniela Gilboa
- Naama Levy
- Liri Albag
These soldiers were abducted during Hamas’s surprise attack on Israel on 7 October 2023, while they were stationed at a military observation post near Gaza.
Details of the Exchange
The exchange is set to occur on 25 January 2024, with Hamas expected to release the four soldiers in return for 200 Palestinian prisoners. This includes:
- 120 prisoners serving life sentences
- 80 prisoners serving lengthy sentences
This would be the second swap since the ceasefire began, following a previous exchange on 21 January 2024, where three Israeli civilians were released in return for 90 Palestinian detainees.
The Ceasefire Agreement
Negotiated through months of discussions mediated by Qatar and Egypt—with backing from the United States—the ceasefire has brought a halt to hostilities for the first time since a short-lived truce in November 2023.
Under the terms of the ceasefire, Hamas has agreed to free 33 hostages, including vulnerable groups like children and the elderly, while Israeli forces are set to pull back from certain positions in Gaza. Future negotiations are expected to revolve around the remaining hostages, many of whom are men of military age.
The Context of the Conflict
The escalation of violence followed the devastating attack by Hamas on 7 October, which resulted in approximately 1,200 casualties and led to the abduction of more than 250 individuals. In retaliation, Israel’s military operations have resulted in over 47,000 Palestinian casualties, a statistic reported by local health authorities.
Following the initial release of hostages on 21 January, Israeli public sentiment has been mixed. While some celebrate the return of hostages, others protest, fearing the prioritisation of certain groups could leave male hostages in peril.
Hardliners within the Israeli government have called for a resumption of military action once the initial phase of exchanges concludes, raising concerns about the potential for renewed conflict.