Key Takeaways:

• Hamas releases three Israeli hostages, prompting outrage over their frail condition.
• In exchange, Israel frees 183 Palestinian prisoners as part of a fragile ceasefire.
• The handover raises concerns over the mental and physical health of the released hostages.
• Negotiations for a second phase of the ceasefire are underway amid heightened geopolitical tensions.

JERUSALEM, Feb 8 (Reuters) - In a major development following the brutal October 7, 2023 attacks that initiated a prolonged war, Hamas has handed over three Israeli hostages, Ohad Ben Ami, Eli Sharabi, and Or Levy. This release occurred amidst an ongoing ceasefire agreement, marking the fifth such exchange since the hostages were taken. Regrettably, the condition of the released individuals was alarming, drawing widespread concern among their families and the Israeli public. Reports indicated that the three appeared thin and frail, having endured 490 days in captivity.

The handover took place under tense circumstances, with armed Hamas fighters overseeing the event. The ceremony was conducted in full view of the public, which critics have described as a “cynical spectacle.” “He looked like a skeleton, it was awful to see,” recounted Michal Cohen, the mother-in-law of Ben Ami, highlighting the disturbing imagery of the handover as they were required to make statements under duress.

In exchange for the three freed hostages, Israel is releasing 183 Palestinian prisoners, some of whom are notable figures affiliated with militant groups. Israeli officials, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, have expressed their outrage over the treatment of the hostages and have suggested that the situation will not remain unaddressed.

In another impactful moment, cheering crowds greeted the Palestinian detainees released from Israeli custody in the West Bank, some individuals showing visible signs of distress. Reports from the Palestinian Red Crescent indicated that several of the released prisoners required hospitalization due to mistreatment while in detention.

This hostage exchange and the state of the released individuals are occurring amidst complex negotiations regarding the permanent ceasefire that seeks to end the ongoing violence. With the continuing fallout from U.S. President Donald Trump's controversial remarks suggesting the relocation of Palestinians from Gaza—including proposals to hand over governance of the region to the United States—an atmosphere of distrust looms over future discussions. Some analysts warn that these geopolitical dynamics may jeopardize efforts to secure a lasting peace agreement.

As negotiations progress, hopes remain high for the resolution of the hostage crisis, with calls from various factions urging for the complete return of captives on both sides. The ongoing humanitarian crises resulting from the conflict further amplify the need for a comprehensive peace strategy and sustained international attention.

For further details, refer to the original articles by BBC, CNN, and AP News.