GAZA CITY: Hamas has reported the release of a hostage from Gaza, who holds Russian citizenship, to the International Red Cross. The action was taken as a gesture of appreciation for Moscow’s position on Gaza conflict, according to Hamas officials.
The circumstances surrounding the release are not entirely clear, and it remains uncertain if this development is linked to the ongoing truce deal between Israel and Hamas that commenced on Friday.
Under the terms of the four-day truce, Hamas committed to releasing 50 Israelis, who were taken hostage on October 7. In return, Israel would release 150 Palestinian prisoners from its jails, including women and children.
Hamas Expected to Release Third Group of Israeli Hostages Today
Hamas is expected to release a third group of Israeli hostages today in exchange for Palestinian prisoners from Israeli jail. The latest swap on Saturday, however, experienced hours of delay as Hamas accused Israel of breaching the deal that led to a four-day ceasefire in the seven-week-old war in Gaza. Despite the dispute, Hamas eventually released 13 Israelis and four Thai hostages during the night. In response, Israel confirmed the release of 39 Palestinian prisoners in accordance with the truce agreement brokered by Qatar, Egypt, and the United States.
Since October 7, Israel has carried out air, artillery, and naval bombardments alongside a ground offensive in the Gaza Strip, resulting in the deaths of nearly 15,000 Palestinians, primarily civilians, and thousands of children, according to the government in Gaza.
Amidst the developments, Egypt has indicated receiving positive feedback from both sides regarding the extension of the truce for a day or two and the potential release of more hostages and prisoners. US President Joe Biden expressed optimism on Friday, stating that “the chances are real” for extending the truce. Jordan’s Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi has called for a permanent ceasefire and a complete end to the aggression.
