Sat Jan 25 10:53:09 UTC 2025: ## Four Israeli Soldiers Released by Hamas in Gaza Ceasefire Deal

**GAZA CITY, PALESTINE –** Four Israeli female soldiers, held captive by Hamas since October 7, 2023, have been released as part of a phased ceasefire agreement, marking the second prisoner exchange since the conflict began. The soldiers, Naama Levy (20), Daniella Gilboa (20), Liri Albag (19), and Karina Ariev (20), were handed over to Red Cross officials at a designated location in Gaza. Video footage showed them, in uniform, briefly standing on a podium before their departure.

The women, captured from the Nahal Oz military base near the Gaza border, were shown in videos released by Hamas during their captivity, displaying various injuries and making pleas for their release. Their release is contingent upon Israel freeing 200 Palestinian prisoners, as per the agreement brokered by Qatar, Egypt, and the United States.

This second phase of the ceasefire deal follows the initial 42-day agreement. The final phase, yet to be implemented, will focus on a more permanent cessation of hostilities, the reconstruction of Gaza, and the return of the bodies of remaining hostages. The agreement aims to establish a lasting peace after months of intense conflict that has left many Gazans homeless and facing immense hardship.

While some displaced Gazans have begun returning to their homes, they are confronted with widespread devastation. “Even if we thought about returning, there is no place for us to put our tents because of the destruction,” said Theqra Qasem, a displaced woman.

Despite the multilateral efforts in securing the ceasefire, former US President Donald Trump took credit for the deal on his social media platform. The remaining stages of the agreement involve the release of an additional 33 Israeli hostages held by Hamas in exchange for a further 1900 Palestinian prisoners. The long-term success of the fragile peace remains to be seen.

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