Sat Feb 15 09:33:26 UTC 2025: ## Three Israeli Hostages Released in Prisoner Exchange Deal

**GAZA CITY/JERUSALEM** – Three Israeli hostages – Yair Horn, Sagui Dekel-Chen, and Sasha Troufanov – were released on Saturday following successful mediation by Egyptian and Qatari officials. The release is part of a prisoner exchange agreement that will see 369 Palestinian prisoners freed in return.

The hostages, captured by Hamas militants on October 7th, 2023, were handed over to the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) in Khan Yunis, Gaza, before being transferred to Israeli forces. The Israeli military confirmed their safe return to Israel. They appeared to be in good health.

This brings the total number of hostages released since a ceasefire began to 19, although many remain in Hamas captivity. The agreement represents a significant step, but the situation remains tense. Israel’s alleged blockade of aid to Gaza continues to fuel a humanitarian crisis and hamper efforts to secure the release of additional hostages. Hamas has warned against further delays in aid delivery.

The ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza is severe, with thousands displaced and lacking essential resources. International calls for a lasting ceasefire and an end to violence continue.

Adding to regional tensions, recent comments by US President Donald Trump suggesting the permanent relocation of Palestinians from Gaza have drawn widespread condemnation as inflammatory. The release of the remaining hostages and the upholding of the ceasefire remain key concerns as the situation unfolds.

Read More