Middle East Latest: Hamas Releases 4 Israeli Soldiers in Exchange for 200 Palestinian Prisoners
Hamas militants on Saturday released four female Israeli soldiers held captive during the brutal 15-month-long war in the Gaza Strip in return for 200 Palestinian prisoners in Israel, in the second exchange since a fragile ceasefire took effect last weekend.
The truce halted the fighting in Gaza for at least six weeks during which doze
ns of Israeli hostages and hundreds of Palestinian prisoners will be freed while more aid flows in.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office said Israel would not allow displaced Palestinians to begin returning to northern Gaza, which had been expected to begin by Sunday, because a civilian hostage who was supposed to be released by Hamas had not been freed on Saturday. Mediators are trying to resolve the dispute, and it’s not clear when Palestinians will be able to return home.
Israel's war against Hamas in Gaza has killed more than 47,000 Palestinians, according to Gaza health authorities. The ministry doesn’t distinguish between combatants and civilians. The war was sparked by Hamas' Oct. 7, 2023, attack on Israel, which killed around 1,200 people.
White House welcomes the release of 4 more Israeli hostages
WASHINGTON — The White House welcomed the release of four Israeli captives on Saturday, saying their freedom was secured by President Donald Trump and promising to work with Israel for the release of all remaining hostages.
“Today the world celebrates as President Trump secured the release of four more Israeli hostages who were, for far too long, held against their will by Hamas in horrific conditions," the White House said in a statement.
"The United States will continue with its great partner Israel to push for the release of all remaining hostages and the pursuit of peace throughout the region,” it added.
