By On January 25, 2025, Hamas released four female Isr*eli soldiers as part of a ceasefire agreement, exchanging them for 200 P@lestinian prisoners held in Isr*eli jails. The released soldiers—Karina Ariev (20), Daniella Gilboa (20), Naama Levy (20), and Liri Albag (19)—had been held captive since their abduction during an attack on October 7, 2023. Upon their release, the soldiers appeared to be in good health and remarkably good condition.
Observers noted that they seemed well-fed, healthy, and emotionally stable, with no visible signs of distress or prolonged hardship. Naama Levy had been seen injured and bound in a video following her capture, while Daniella Gilboa was also wounded during the initial attack and had previously appeared in a Hamas-released video pleading for government intervention.
Liri Albag was abducted shortly after beginning her military service, and Karina Ariev had briefly communicated with her parents before her capture. Their families expressed immense joy and gratitude upon their return. The exchange was part of a broader ceasefire deal between Isr*el and Hamas, which also saw the release of 200 P@lestinian prisoners. The ceasefire agreement, mediated by Qatar, Egypt, and supported by the United States, aims to gradually exchange hostages held by Hamas for P@lestinian prisoners over a six-week period.
This development has been met with widespread relief and celebration among the families and supporters of the released individuals. However, the situation remains complex, with ongoing negotiations and efforts to secure the release of remaining hostages. The international community continues to monitor the situation closely, emphasizing the importance of upholding ceasefire agreements and ensuring the safety and well-being of all individuals involved.
