Key Takeaways:

• Hamas has released four Israeli female soldiers as part of a hostage exchange.
• The exchange involves the release of 200 Palestinian prisoners by Israel.
• These soldiers were abducted during the October 7, 2023, Hamas attack, which ignited the latest conflict.
• Celebrations ensued in both Gaza and Israel following the handover.

In a notable development, Hamas announced the release of four female Israeli soldiers, Karina Ariev, Daniella Gilboa, Naama Levy, and Liri Albag, as part of a ceasefire agreement that aims to ease hostilities following 15 months of intense conflict. The soldiers were handed over to representatives of the International Committee of the Red Cross on January 25, 2025, amid a backdrop of jubilant crowds in Gaza City and emotional scenes in Tel Aviv as families awaited news of their loved ones.

The release comes as Israel prepares to free 200 Palestinian prisoners, marking the second exchange since the ceasefire commenced. The agreement, initially brokered by the United States, Qatar, and Egypt, has halted hostilities which previously claimed the lives of approximately 47,000 Palestinians and 1,200 Israelis. The four soldiers had been held captive since they were abducted from the Nahal Oz military base during Hamas's incursion into southern Israel shortly after their attack on October 7, 2023.

The handover was characterized by a staged ceremony involving Hamas militants, who displayed their power by surrounding the location of the transfer. Witnesses reported that the soldiers, who wore military attire adorned with Hamas slogans, appeared to be in good spirits as they waved at onlookers. This moment was marked by a stark contrast to their previous state when captured, as they were visibly traumatized and bloodied, pleading for help in earlier videos released by their captors.

Upon their return, the women were greeted with cheers in Hostages Square in Tel Aviv, where large screens displayed their release to the public. Israeli officials have emphasized that their mission is not complete until all hostages are returned. Despite the emotional reunions, the situation remains fraught, as some Israeli officials have raised concerns over the terms of the ceasefire, particularly regarding a civilian hostage who was not included in the latest release.

As a part of the broader agreement, the Israeli military is also expected to withdraw from certain areas in Gaza, facilitating access for humanitarian assistance in a region that has seen vast destruction.

For more detailed information, refer to the original articles from The Guardian, AP News, and CNN.