NewDelhi: In a significant development amid the fragile Gaza-Israel ceasefire, Hamas released three Israeli hostages on Saturday, marking the sixth such exchange since the truce began nearly a month ago. The hostages paraded in front of crowds in southern Gaza before being handed over to the Red Cross and were later reunited with their families after medical evaluations by Israeli authorities. In exchange, Israel began releasing 369 Palestinian prisoners, including 36 serving life sentences.
The released hostages—36-year-old American-Israeli Sagui Dekel Chen, 46-year-old Israeli-Argentinian Ayelet Horn, and 29-year-old Russian-Israeli Alexander (Sasha) Trufanov—were abducted during the Hamas-led attack on 7 October 2023. While visibly fatigued and pale, their condition was reportedly better than some previously released captives.
A Fragile Truce Amid Ongoing Challenges
The ceasefire, brokered to facilitate hostage-prisoner exchanges, has faced repeated challenges. Hamas has accused Israel of failing to provide adequate humanitarian aid to Gaza, delaying hostage releases. In turn, Israel has threatened to resume military operations if Hamas fails to release more hostages. Despite these tensions, the truce has enabled the release of 21 hostages and over 730 Palestinian prisoners so far.
The latest exchange saw Hamas confirming the release of 369 Palestinian prisoners, including prominent figures like Ahmed Barghouti, a close associate of Marwan Barghouti, a key Palestinian leader serving multiple life sentences for his role in attacks during the Second Intifada. The release process was marked by a highly publicised display, with hostages presented on a stage surrounded by armed Hamas fighters and banners of militant groups.
Hostages Share Harrowing Ordeals
The released hostages shared chilling accounts of their captivity. Ayelet Horn, abducted alongside her brother Eitan (who remains in captivity), described the trauma of being separated from her family. Sagui Dekel Chen was seized while working outdoors during the 7 October attack, while his wife and daughters hid in a safe room. Alexander Trufanov, captured with his grandmother, mother, and girlfriend (released in November), revealed that his father was killed during the initial assault.
Concerns Over Remaining Captives
Of the 251 hostages taken on 7 October, 73 remain in Gaza, with reports suggesting nearly half may have died. Their deteriorating condition has raised alarm, particularly after the release of visibly weak and malnourished captives last week. Keith Siegel, a 65-year-old former hostage, recounted worsening abuse as the conflict escalated.
Trump’s Controversial Proposal
Amid the ongoing crisis, former US President Donald Trump’s proposal to relocate over 2 million Palestinians from Gaza to other regions has sparked outrage. While welcomed by Israel, the plan has been vehemently rejected by Palestinians and Arab nations, with human rights groups warning it could constitute a war crime under international law.
Humanitarian Crisis in Gaza
The conflict has taken a devastating toll, with Gaza’s Health Ministry reporting over 48,000 Palestinian casualties, including many women and children. Israel claims to have killed 17,000 militants but has provided no evidence. The fighting has displaced 90% of Gaza’s population, exacerbating an already dire humanitarian situation.
As the ceasefire’s second phase—expected to involve the release of all remaining hostages in exchange for an end to hostilities—remains uncertain, the region teeters on the edge of further escalation. While the recent exchanges offer a glimmer of hope, the path to lasting peace remains fraught with challenges.
Comments are closed.