Four Israeli Soldiers Released in Gaza Ceasefire Deal After 477 Days of Captivity

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In a significant development amidst ongoing tensions, Hamas has released four female Israeli soldiers as part of a ceasefire agreement, marking their return after 477 days in captivity. The soldiers—Karina Ariev, Daniella Gilboa, Naama Levy, and Liri Albag—were captured during a Hamas attack on an Israeli military base on October 7, 2023.

Prior to their release, the women were seen in a video circulated by Hamas shortly after their abduction, showing them in pajamas, injured, and handcuffed. This footage was re-released by their families in an effort to push for negotiations with the Israeli government.

Following their release, the soldiers were paraded through Gaza City before being transferred to Red Cross vehicles, which brought them back to Israel. In exchange for their release, Israel has returned 200 Palestinian prisoners, highlighting the complexities surrounding the ongoing conflict.

The soldiers endured harsh conditions during their time in captivity, reportedly living in civilian apartments and tunnels, often in unsanitary conditions and required to perform domestic tasks for their captors. While the Israeli government has been under pressure regarding their treatment, they confirmed the soldiers have now been reunited with their families.

The incident drew significant media attention, with Israeli officials emphasizing the importance of not forgetting the images and stories of those captured. Still, the broader ramifications of the hostage situation extend beyond individual fates, reflecting the ongoing strife and fragile ceasefire between Israel and Hamas.

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