Hamas will release three Israeli and five Thai hostages on Thursday as part of the ceasefire agreement, The Times of Israel reported.
Details of the Hostages Being Freed
According to reports, Hamas provided the names of three Israeli hostages via Egypt and Qatar mediators:
- Agam Berger (20) – IDF Soldier
- Arbek Yehoud (29) – Civilian
- Gadi Moshe Mozes (80) – Civilian
Additionally, five Thai nationals will be released today, though their names have not been disclosed.
There are currently eight Thai hostages in Gaza, along with one Nepalese and one Tanzanian. However, two Thai citizens and the Tanzanian hostage have been declared dead by Israel.
Prisoner Swap Agreement
As part of the ceasefire deal, Israel will release 110 Palestinian security prisoners, including:
- 30 prisoners per civilian hostage
- 50 prisoners in exchange for IDF soldier Agam Berger
- 30 prisoners are convicted terrorists serving life sentences
Recent Hostage Releases
Last Saturday, Hamas freed four Israeli hostages, who were safely escorted by Israeli special forces after being handed over by the International Red Cross. The released hostages were:
- Karina Ariev
- Daniella Gilboa
- Naama Levy
- Liri Albag
Footage from Tel Aviv’s Hostages Square showed crowds cheering and applauding as the hostages’ return was announced. Many supporters wore bright yellow shirts in solidarity and held pictures of those still in captivity.
Background on the Ongoing Conflict
On October 7, 2023, Hamas launched a deadly attack on southern Israel, killing over 1,200 people and abducting more than 200 hostages.
Israel launched a military counter-offensive in Gaza, resulting in over 46,000 Palestinian casualties.
A weeklong ceasefire in November 2023 previously led to the release of over 100 hostages.
This latest exchange marks another step in ongoing efforts to bring hostages home safely while continuing diplomatic negotiations.