Fri Jan 31 04:20:00 IST 2025: ## Gaza Hostage Exchange Delayed Amidst Chaos; Netanyahu Suspends Prisoner Release
**Khan Younis, Gaza/Tel Aviv, Israel** – The release of seven hostages in Gaza was marred by chaotic scenes on Thursday, leading Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to suspend the planned release of Palestinian prisoners. Three Israelis and five Thai citizens were freed in Khan Younis, but a surging crowd hampered the handover, delaying the process despite a heavily armed militant escort.
The freed Israelis were identified as 80-year-old Gadi Moses, 29-year-old Arbel Yehoud, and a previously released female soldier, Agam Berger (20). The Thai hostages were Thenna Pongsak, Sathian Suwannakham, Sriaoun Watchara, Seathao Bannawat, and Rumnao Surasak.
Netanyahu condemned the “shocking scenes” in Khan Younis, citing concerns for the safety of remaining hostages. He suspended the release of Palestinian prisoners until mediators guarantee the safe exit of all remaining hostages. Buses carrying Palestinian prisoners were initially sent back to Israeli jails before a revised release time. Some prisoners were later transferred to Ramallah in the West Bank.
This latest incident marks another crisis within the two-week-old ceasefire agreement. Previous delays and accusations of Hamas violating the terms have punctuated the release process.
Meanwhile, US Middle East envoy Steven Witkoff visited Hostage Square in Tel Aviv, meeting with families of hostages. He expressed optimism about the ceasefire’s longevity and commitment to bringing home both living and deceased hostages. Witkoff also visited Gaza and the Israeli hospital treating the four female soldiers released earlier.
The first phase of the ceasefire, encompassing the release of 33 Israeli hostages, is scheduled to last 42 days. Hamas claims eight of the remaining 23 hostages are dead. The agreement also stipulates the release of approximately 1,900 Palestinian prisoners and increased aid to Gaza.
Shortly after the hostage release, Hamas confirmed the death of Mohammed Deif, head of its military wing, six months after Israel announced his death in an airstrike.
Witkoff’s visit precedes negotiations for the second phase of the deal, scheduled for Monday. Netanyahu faces intense pressure from within his coalition to resume hostilities rather than extend the ceasefire. The continued uncertainty and chaotic scenes surrounding the hostage exchange highlight the fragility of the ongoing peace process.
First Piper 