Sat Jan 25 04:27:23 UTC 2025: ## Four Israeli Soldiers Released in Gaza Ceasefire Deal
**GAZA CITY** – Four Israeli women soldiers, abducted by Palestinian militants on October 7, 2023, during a border attack near Gaza, are scheduled for release on Saturday. The release is part of a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas, the militant group that orchestrated the attack.
The soldiers, identified as Liri Albag (19), Karina Ariev (20), Daniella Gilboa (20), and Naama Levy (20), were captured along with three other female soldiers during a raid on the Nahal Oz military base. One of the soldiers, Noa Marciano, was killed, her body later returned to Israel; another, Ori Megidish, was released alive in late October. Agam Berger remains held captive in Gaza.
The abduction of the four women, whose release was confirmed via a Hamas-provided list, was filmed. During their captivity, they endured harsh conditions. Reports indicate that Albag was forced to perform domestic chores. Ariev and Gilboa appeared in Hamas propaganda videos released earlier this year. Levy’s video showed her injured.
Albag, known for her love of travel, singing, and photography, passed messages to her family via previously released hostages. Ariev, who aspires to become a psychologist, and Gilboa, a passionate musician, have also been highlighted by family and friends for their compassionate natures. Levy, a triathlete and the granddaughter of Holocaust survivors, had participated in a peace-building program prior to her abduction.
The families of the released soldiers, who have actively campaigned for their return, are expected to welcome them home Saturday. The release marks a significant development in the ongoing conflict and raises hopes for the eventual release of the remaining Israeli hostages.
First Piper 