Hamas has released three hostages, including German-Israeli Ohad Ben Ami, as part of a deal where Israel will free 183 Palestinian prisoners. The hostages appeared frail upon their return after 491 days in captivity. The exchange included a celebratory reception in Ramallah for released Palestinian prisoners. Concerns about the health of the hostages were raised, and Israeli leaders condemned their treatment. Ongoing negotiations may lead to further releases, with 76 hostages still in Gaza.
Hamas Releases Three Hostages Amid Ongoing Tensions
The militant group Hamas has announced the release of three additional hostages, including German-Israeli Ohad Ben Ami. This move comes as part of a larger agreement where Israel is set to release 183 Palestinian prisoners in exchange.
On the 491st day of their captivity, Ohad Ben Ami, Or Levy, and Eli Scharabi were handed over to the Red Cross in Gaza and subsequently transferred to the Israeli military. Reports indicate that the three men appeared pale and in frail condition upon their return to Israeli soil.
Significant Exchange of Prisoners
In a reciprocal action, Israel is releasing a number of Palestinian prisoners. The first bus carrying 42 individuals arrived in Ramallah, where it was met with cheers from waiting crowds. In total, 183 Palestinian prisoners are expected to be freed in exchange for the three hostages. Some of these individuals had been convicted in connection with violent attacks resulting in numerous casualties, while Hamas claims that 111 were detained during the ongoing conflict in Gaza.
The transfer of the hostages was observed by hundreds of onlookers. In contrast to previous releases, this event was more orderly, although armed Hamas members were visibly present. Footage showed the men being brought onto a stage, where they were reportedly made to express gratitude for their “care” during captivity—a move interpreted as a propaganda effort by the weakened group.
Ohad Ben Ami, who is 56 years old, reportedly holds dual citizenship and was taken during the Hamas attacks on October 7, 2023. Or Levy, aged 34, was abducted while attending a music festival near the Gaza border, where his wife was tragically killed as they sought shelter. Additionally, 52-year-old Eli Scharabi lost his wife and two daughters during the same attacks, while the whereabouts of his brother remain uncertain.
Upon their return to Israel, the hostages will undergo medical examinations before meeting their families. Many relatives have expressed concern over the men’s health, with reports noting tears and emotional reactions as they watched the release unfold on live television. One family member described Scharabi’s condition as distressing, stating, “He doesn’t look good. It’s mixed feelings.” Similarly, a relative of Ben Ami remarked on the toll that captivity has taken, noting he appears significantly aged.
Israeli President Isaac Herzog condemned the treatment of the hostages, calling it a “crime against humanity.” He emphasized that the world witnessed the exploitation of these men in a disturbing spectacle. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu echoed these sentiments, promising that such actions would not go unanswered.
As negotiations continue, 76 hostages remain in Gaza, with reports suggesting that a number have already died. The next phase of releases is anticipated to occur next weekend, as part of an agreement that could see over 1,900 Palestinian prisoners freed in exchange for hostages.