Israel confirmed that Hamas released three hostages—Iair Horn, Sagui Dekel-Chen, and Sasha (Alexander) Troufanov—on Saturday. Their release, facilitated by Egyptian and Qatari mediators, helped prevent a potential breakdown of the ongoing 42-day ceasefire between Israel and Hamas. The three hostages were handed over to the Red Cross in Gaza before being transported back to Israel.
In return for the hostages, Israel has agreed to release 369 Palestinian prisoners and detainees. The exchange aims to ease tensions and sustain the fragile ceasefire, which has faced multiple challenges.
Who were the hostages?
Horn, Dekel-Chen (a US-Israeli citizen), and Troufanov (a Russian-Israeli citizen) were among those abducted by Hamas on October 7, 2023, during the deadly attack on Israeli communities near the Gaza Strip. They were seized from Kibbutz Nir Oz, one of the hardest-hit areas. Horn’s brother, Eitan Horn, was also abducted and remains in captivity.
Reports indicate that dozens of Hamas militants were present at the release site, with some carrying weapons allegedly taken from Israeli forces during the October 7 attack.
The emaciated appearance of previously released hostages and reports of mistreatment has led to public outrage in Israel. Protesters are demanding that the government maintain the ceasefire and continue negotiating for the release of all captives.
Complicating matters further, US President Donald Trump recently suggested that Palestinians be permanently relocated from Gaza, a proposal rejected by Palestinian leaders, Arab nations, and Western allies.
Hostages still in captivity
Hamas initially agreed to release 33 hostages as part of the deal. Before Saturday, 16 Israeli hostages and five Thai nationals had been released. 76 hostages remain in Gaza, but only about half are believed to be alive.
(With agency inputs)