In a landmark prisoner exchange, Hamas released four female Israeli army soldiers who were taken captive during the Hamas-led attack on southern Israel on Oct. 7, 2023. The four hostages wore military attire as they were released in Gaza City to a cheering crowd and fighters surrounded them.
The exchange is part of a 42-day cease-fire between Israel and Hamas, where Hamas agreed to release hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners and a partial Israeli withdrawal. The hostages had been young recruits working as spotters reporting on suspicious activity for the Israeli army.
Liri Albag, Karina Ariev, Daniella Gilboa, and Naama Levy were among the released hostages. Albag, who had dreams of being an architect, expressed relief and joy upon her release. Ariev called her parents during the attack, and her family found a video showing her in captivity with injuries. Gilboa hoped to perform professionally as a pianist, while Levy, a triathlete, also reached out to her mother during the attack.
Footage from Hamas militants had shown the abduction of the women, sparking concerns for their wellbeing. The families of the hostages expressed mixed emotions as videos of their loved ones in captivity were released. The release of these hostages marks a significant step in the ongoing conflict and highlights the human cost of warfare.
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