Hamas has transferred two Israeli hostages to the Red Cross, marking a significant step in the ongoing conflict. The men, Avera Mengistu and Tal Schoham, have safely returned to Israel, with additional hostages expected to be released soon. While gatherings form in Tel Aviv for updates, Kibbutz Nir Oz mourns the loss of Shiri Bibas. In a broader context, six hostages are being exchanged for hundreds of Palestinian prisoners as part of a ceasefire agreement.
Hamas Releases Israeli Hostages to the Red Cross
In a significant development, Hamas has transferred two Israeli hostages to the Red Cross, marking a crucial moment in the ongoing conflict. The men have safely returned to Israel, with reports indicating that four additional hostages are anticipated to be released today. Stay updated with the latest developments.
Details on Hostage Handover and Returns
According to Al Jazeera, Hischam al-Sajid is expected to be released in Gaza City, although this handover will not feature a public ceremony like the previous ones. The Israeli army confirmed that the two released hostages, Avera Mengistu and Tal Schoham, have arrived at an initial reception center in southern Israel. Following medical evaluations, they will be reunited with their families.
Red Cross vehicles have been spotted arriving in Nuseirat, where three more hostages are expected to be released shortly. The Israeli military has confirmed its involvement, stating that they have taken over the released men from the Red Cross for their safe return to Israel.
The first two of the six hostages anticipated to be released today were handed over in Rafah to representatives of the International Committee of the Red Cross. Tal Schoham and Avera Mengistu were previously displayed by Hamas during the handover process, consistent with earlier releases.
While the situation unfolds, gatherings in Tel Aviv are forming as people await news on the hostages being released from Gaza. Meanwhile, Kibbutz Nir Oz has mourned the loss of hostage Shiri Bibas, whose death has been confirmed following the handover of her remains. The kibbutz expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy, highlighting the impact of the ongoing conflict on families.
In a related context, today marks the expected release of six Israeli hostages in return for hundreds of Palestinian prisoners. As part of the ceasefire agreement, Hamas has announced the names of those being released, including Elija Cohen, Omer Schem Tov, Omer Wenkert, and Avera Mengistu, among others. In exchange, 602 Palestinian prisoners will be set free from Israeli detention facilities.
To date, 19 living Israeli hostages have been freed in exchange for over 1,100 Palestinian prisoners. Recent reports indicate that Hamas has also handed over several bodies, including those of Shiri Bibas’s children, but the status of some remains is still a subject of investigation.