19th January, 2025
Hamas handed over three Israeli hostages to the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) on Sunday morning, marking the first such release since a 42-day ceasefire took effect.
The hostages—Romi Gonen, Doron Steinbrecher, and Emily Damari—had been held in Gaza since their abduction during the October 7, 2023, attack on Israel.
The handover took place at the bustling Al-Saraya Junction, where crowds of onlookers gathered, capturing a dramatic scene.
Dozens of masked militants from Hamas’ Al Qassam Brigades and the Palestinian Islamic Jihad’s Al-Quds Brigades were present, adding an intense atmosphere to the exchange.
The Israeli military confirmed the transfer, stating, “The Red Cross has communicated that the three Israeli hostages were transferred to them.”
The hostages are now en route to Israeli forces in Gaza, with their return eagerly anticipated.
This development offers a glimpse of hope amidst the devastation of the conflict, symbolising a pivotal step in the implementation of the ceasefire agreement.