Hamas has handed over five Israeli captives in exchange for hundreds of Palestinians detained in Israeli prisons as part of the ceasefire agreement between the two sides. The captives were released in separate ceremonies in Gaza City, with the last captive expected to be handed over without a ceremony. The release marks the final stage of the first phase of the ceasefire that began on January 19. The release of the captives was well-organized, with Hamas ensuring the safety and security of the process.
The sixth captive to be released, Hisham al-Sayed, was taken captive in 2015 when he entered Gaza. Al Jazeera’s Hani Mahmoud reported a large crowd witnessing the release of the captives, signaling the importance of the event. The staging of the handover was seen as a way for Hamas to demonstrate their responsibility and commitment to the ceasefire. Israel is expected to release 602 Palestinians in return, including those detained during the war on Gaza.
The ceasefire had faced challenges, including the misidentification of a released body as that of a captive taken by Hamas. A late change in the plan, with only three captives being released in Nuseirat instead of four, added to the tensions. However, the release of the captives and the planned release of Palestinian prisoners are seen as positive steps towards maintaining the fragile ceasefire.
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