Hamas released four Israeli women soldiers who had been in captivity in Gaza for 15 months as part of a ceasefire agreement mediated by Qatar, Egypt, and supported by the United States.
Israel fulfilled its part of the deal by releasing 200 Palestinians. The handover by Hamas took place at Palestine Square in Gaza City, where the hostages were handed over to representatives of the Red Cross.
The hostages, identified as Karina Ariev, Daniella Gilboa, Naama Levy, all 20 years old, and Liri Albag, 19, were kidnapped on October 7, 2023, while serving at the Nahal Oz military base.
After being handed over to the Red Cross, the women were transferred to the custody of the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) in Gaza and underwent preliminary medical evaluations before being returned to Israeli territory, according to a military statement.