Sat Jan 25 09:40:30 UTC 2025: ## Four Israeli Soldiers Released in Gaza Hostage Swap
**Gaza City, January 25, 2025** – Four Israeli female soldiers, held captive in Gaza since October 7, 2023, following a Hamas attack, have been released as part of a prisoner exchange agreement. The soldiers, Karina Ariev, Daniella Gilboa, Naama Levy, and Liri Albag, were handed over to the Red Cross by Hamas militants after being paraded in a Gaza City square.
This marks the second prisoner exchange since a ceasefire, brokered by Qatar and Egypt with US backing, went into effect. The ceasefire, ending six weeks of intense fighting, is a significant step towards de-escalation after months of on-and-off negotiations. The first phase saw the release of three Israeli women and 90 Palestinian prisoners.
Under the agreement, Israel is releasing 50 Palestinian prisoners for each female Israeli soldier. The release of the four soldiers therefore implies the release of an additional 200 Palestinian prisoners. Subsequent phases of the agreement will address the release of remaining hostages and the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza. The ongoing situation remains delicate, with further negotiations planned to address the long-term issues stemming from 15 months of conflict and the devastation in Gaza.
First Piper 