Relief Sweeps Israel as First Hostages Return Home
There's a palpable sense of relief in Israel following the release of the first group of hostages held captive by Hamas. U.S. President Joe Biden was optimistic, stating, "This is just the beginning," hinting at future releases. He expected more hostages to be set free on the 25th, 26th, and 27th of this month. Germany's Chancellor Olaf Scholz shared the same sentiment, urging Hamas to free all hostages unconditionally.
On a Friday, Islamic Hamas released 24 hostages — 13 Israelis and 11 foreigners, abducted seven weeks prior in the Gaza Strip. Among the released were four individuals holding dual Israeli-German citizenship. In return, Israel freed 39 convicted Palestinian prisoners. The ceasefire, just hours before, had commenced, marking the beginning of humanitarian aid deliveries to Gaza.
The truce, negotiated between Israel and Hamas, was set to last at least four days. The agreement, however, allows for an extension up to ten days, as suggested by Qatar, mediating the conflict. The arrangement includes the release of up to 100 hostages from Israel in exchange for up to 300 Palestinian prisoners. Iran played a role in negotiating the release of Thai hostages with Hamas earlier.
More Israelis to be Released Today
According to recent reports, thirteen more hostages — twelve Israelis and one foreigner — are expected to be released later this Saturday. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office verified the information, mentioning eight of the Israelis to be children.
The U.S. President Calls for a Two-State Solution
In his speech, Biden expressed joy, attributing it to "weeks of personal commitment" and persistence. He continued talks with leaders in Qatar, Egypt, and Israel to ensure a seamless implementation of the agreement's aspects.
Biden reiterated his support for a two-state solution, emphasizing, "Today's result is a crucial step in breaking the cycle of violence in the Middle East." He emphasized, "We must renew our commitment to pursue this two-state solution, where Israelis and Palestinians can coexist with equal freedom and dignity."
The U.S. government confirms the presence of at least three Americans — a four-year-old girl and two women — among the 50 hostages set to be released. They were not among the early releases from Gaza. Ten Americans remain missing, although their status remains unclear.
Scholz Pushes for Remaining Hostages' Release
Scholz welcomed the release of the first group of hostages and commended the diplomatic efforts. However, he underscored the need to free all remaining hostages, including over 200 still in captivity.
Hospital Director: Hostages in Good Condition
The returned hostages were taken to hospitals near Tel Aviv and later reunited with their families. The director of the Schneider Children's Medical Center, Efrat Baron Har Lev, revealed that children, mothers, and a grandmother were in "the best and most caring hands," with excellent physical conditions.
The Gaza War Triggered by Deadliest Israeli Attack
The current conflict was sparked by a deadly attack carried out by Gaza terrorists on October 7, 2023, in Israel, near the border. Over 1200 individuals were killed, and thousands more were injured. Approximately 240 individuals, including several Germans, were taken hostage in Gaza.
Israel responded with relentless air strikes, a Gaza Strip blockade, and a ground offensive launched on the last day of October. According to Hamas, nearly 15,000 individuals were killed, while more than 36,000 were wounded. The exact number is still under verification.
What is Important on Saturday?
After the ceasefire, more hostages are expected to return to Israel and aid deliveries to reach Gaza.
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Enrichment Insights:
- The truce and hostage releases are part of a complex arrangement between Israel and Hamas, involving the release of hostages, Palestinian prisoners, and a ceasefire to last at least four days.
- The U.S. Government, as of February 11, 2025, acknowledges at least three Americans among the 50 hostages set to be released. The exact number of Americans still missing remain unclear.
- The agreement includes negotiating the release of the remaining 65 Israeli hostages (particularly soldiers) in exchange for additional Palestinian prisoners and an Israeli withdrawal from Gaza.
- The plan for Gaza's future governance remains contested, with Israel opposing the involvement of Hamas or the Palestinian Authority.
- An ultimatum from U.S. President Donald Trump threatened that "all hell" would break out if Hamas did not release all hostages by noon on February 15, 2025. This ultimatum might have contributed to the announced delay of the release, despite the scheduled date.
- Three Israeli hostages, Iair Horn, Sagui Dekel Chen, and Alexander (Sasha) Troufanov, are expected to be released on February 15, 2025.
