CAIRO/JERUSALEM/RAMALLAH, Jan 30 – In a tense and highly anticipated exchange, Israel released 110 Palestinian prisoners following the delayed handover of several hostages by Hamas. The process, which was momentarily stalled due to chaotic scenes during the hostage transfer, eventually proceeded under renewed assurances from mediators.
Hostage Handover Amid Chaos
The release of hostages by Hamas occurred in a dramatic setting, with three Israeli and five Thai captives being handed over to the Red Cross in Gaza. One of the released hostages, 29-year-old Arbel Yehoud, had been taken from Kibbutz Nir Oz during the October 7 attack. She appeared distressed and had difficulty walking as she navigated through a crowd of armed militants in Khan Younis. Another Israeli hostage, 80-year-old Gadi Moses, was also freed alongside five Thai nationals who had been working in Israel when they were abducted.
Israeli officials expressed outrage over the disorderly nature of the handover, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu describing the scenes as unacceptable. He and Defense Minister Israel Katz ordered a temporary halt to the prisoner releases until a safer transfer process for hostages could be guaranteed. Later, Israeli authorities confirmed that mediators had assured better arrangements for future exchanges.
Prisoners Welcomed in the West Bank
Hours after the hostages’ release, buses carrying freed Palestinian detainees arrived in Ramallah. The prisoners were welcomed by large crowds in the Israeli-occupied West Bank, with chants of solidarity filling the air. Among those released was Zakaria Zubaidi, a prominent figure linked to the Al-Aqsa Martyrs Brigades. Zubaidi, who had previously escaped from an Israeli prison in 2021 before being recaptured, was a significant figure in the prisoner list.
Upon his arrival, Zubaidi addressed the crowd, expressing gratitude for his release and paying tribute to those who lost their lives in Gaza. Reports indicated that he might not be allowed to return to his home in the Jenin refugee camp, a site frequently targeted by Israeli military operations. When asked about this restriction, he defiantly responded, “The dragon owns the land, and the hunter must leave,” referencing his well-known nickname.
Clashes in Ramallah During Celebrations
Despite the joyous reception for the freed detainees, tensions flared as clashes broke out in Ramallah. Palestinian health officials reported at least 14 people injured by Israeli fire, some suffering from gunshot wounds while others were affected by tear gas inhalation. Video footage captured moments of stone-throwing by Palestinians and retaliatory fire from Israeli forces.
In East Jerusalem, some of the released prisoners reached their families, while others were transported to Gaza or deported to Egypt under the conditions of the agreement.
A Soldier’s Emotional Return
One of the most emotional moments of the day occurred in Jabalia, northern Gaza, where an Israeli soldier, Agam Berger, was handed over to the Red Cross. Wearing an olive-green uniform, she was led through the ruins of war-torn buildings before being reunited with her family. In a statement, her relatives described her as “strong, faithful, and brave,” while emphasizing that their recovery process would only be complete when all hostages were safely returned.
Footage showed Berger crying and smiling while sitting on her mother’s lap, reflecting the relief and emotional toll of the ordeal. Meanwhile, 80-year-old Gadi Moses was seen walking unaided upon reuniting with his loved ones. A doctor monitoring Moses stated that he was in stable condition but would continue receiving medical care.
Political Pressure and Ongoing Challenges
Netanyahu has faced mounting pressure over the handling of hostage negotiations. Critics argue that an earlier deal could have been reached, preventing prolonged suffering. Many Israelis gathered in Tel Aviv’s Hostages Square, watching the live coverage of the releases on a giant screen. The emotional scenes brought tears and cheers as families were finally reunited.
Amidst the celebrations, U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff was present in Tel Aviv, shaking hands with hostage families and others who had gathered. His presence was seen as an acknowledgment of diplomatic efforts that contributed to the agreement.
Escalating Conflict and the Future of Gaza
The war, triggered by the October 7 attack, has left deep scars on both sides. Over 1,200 people were killed in the initial Hamas-led assault, making it one of the deadliest attacks against Israel in history. Among those affected were dozens of Thai agricultural workers, many of whom were taken hostage.
Israel’s military response has been devastating, with over 47,000 Palestinians reported killed and vast portions of Gaza left in ruins. The humanitarian situation in the enclave remains dire, with residents facing severe shortages of food, medicine, and fuel.
As people slowly return to what remains of their neighborhoods, many have found their homes destroyed and resources scarce. The conflict has displaced hundreds of thousands of Gazans, forcing them to relocate multiple times within the besieged territory.
Hostages Still Held in Gaza
Despite the recent releases, Israel estimates that 82 captives remain in Gaza, with at least 30 presumed dead. Previous exchanges in November 2023 had seen a partial release of hostages, while others have been recovered through military operations.
The latest developments come amid broader regional tensions. Israeli military strikes have targeted leaders of armed groups, including those in Gaza, Lebanon, and Syria. These actions are part of a wider strategy to weaken militant networks in the region.
As the conflict continues, families of those still held captive anxiously await further developments, hoping for the safe return of their loved ones. Meanwhile, the release of prisoners has fueled celebrations and protests in Palestinian territories, adding another layer of complexity to the fragile situation.