In a significant development, Israel has released 110 Palestinian prisoners in a swap for eight hostages held by Hamas, marking the third exchange since the ceasefire in Gaza came into effect. This operation reflects the ongoing efforts within the framework of the ceasefire agreement, which aims to conclude a devastating conflict between Israel and Hamas.
Joyous reception in Ramallah
The released prisoners were greeted with jubilation as they arrived in the West Bank city of Ramallah, where thousands of Palestinians celebrated their return. This release brings the total number of prisoners freed by Israel to 400 since the ceasefire began on January 19. So far, Hamas has released 15 hostages within this timeframe.
However, the release was initially delayed by Israel in response to concerns regarding the treatment of the hostages during their handover to Red Cross personnel in Khan Younis. Eyewitness accounts described chaotic scenes as the hostages were escorted by armed gunmen through crowds of jubilant onlookers.
“During the release of our hostages today, we all saw shocking sights. We made it clear to the mediators that we do not intend to accept any risk to our hostages. And I add to that: whoever dares to harm our hostages – may his blood be on his head,” said Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in a televised statement.
Among those released were two Israeli citizens, Arbel Yehud, 29, and 80-year-old Gadi Moses, who was promptly taken to a hospital in Tel Aviv where he was reported to be in stable condition. Professor Gil Fire, deputy director of the Ichilov Medical Centre, remarked, “After initial evaluation, I’m happy to say that his condition is quite good and stable.”
Additionally, five Thai agricultural workers who were also among the hostages were taken to a central Israeli hospital for medical evaluations. They were welcomed there by Thailand’s ambassador to Israel, Pannabha Chandraramya.
Impact of UNRWA ban on humanitarian aid
On the same day, a law passed by the Knesset banning the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) from operating in Israeli territory came into effect. The agency reported a lack of official communication from Israeli authorities regarding the ban’s implementation, although approximately 25 international staff members had already departed from Jerusalem to relocate to Amman, Jordan.
UNRWA spokesperson Jonathan Fowler expressed alarm over the situation, stating, “It’s like a nightmare scenario. And it’s also completely outlandish that a member state of the United Nations system would choose to undo the mandate of an organisation which, let’s not forget, is mandated by the UN General Assembly.”
The agency plays a critical role in providing aid to Gaza, accounting for over half of the deliveries in the region. Fowler emphasized the importance of UNRWA in the humanitarian landscape, warning that without its operations, the aid framework risks collapse.
Israel has historically criticized UNRWA, alleging that its presence contributes to the ongoing conflict and accusing some of its employees of supporting Hamas. The agency, however, maintains that it does not knowingly assist militant groups and acts to remove any personnel found to be involved in such activities.