Early Monday morning, Israel released 90 Palestinian prisoners in response to the return of three Israeli hostages freed by Hamas, an action that followed the implementation of a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip on Sunday.
The released prisoners left Israel’s Ofer prison near Ramallah in the West Bank, transported in large white buses. The atmosphere was filled with celebration as fireworks illuminated the night sky, and crowds of Palestinians gathered to welcome the detainees, chanting and cheering in support.
The Palestinian Authority’s Commission for Prisoners’ Affairs confirmed that the group included women and minors. Israel had held these individuals on charges related to national security, which varied from relatively minor acts like stone-throwing to more serious accusations like attempted murder.
This release was part of the broader implications of the ceasefire agreement. On Sunday, Israel verified that three hostages, previously held by Hamas for 15 months, had been safely returned to Israeli territory. The hostages were initially handed over to the Red Cross in Gaza City right after the ceasefire commenced, and subsequently, they were transferred to the Israeli military.
This exchange of prisoners and hostages marks a significant moment in the ongoing conflict, offering a brief respite and a potential step towards further de-escalation in the region.
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