On January 30, 2025, the Palestinian militant group Hamas began releasing eight hostages as part of a ceasefire agreement with Israel. In exchange, Israel will release over 100 Palestinian prisoners.
This marks the third hostage exchange since the fragile ceasefire commenced on January 19, aimed at resolving over 15 months of conflict in the Palestinian enclave, which escalated following Hamas's attack on Israel on October 7, 2023.
In Jabaliya, located in northern Gaza, Hamas handed over Agam Berger, a 20-year-old Israeli woman who was captured during her military service. The Israeli army later confirmed her release.
According to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office, other hostages set for release include Arbel Yehud, a 29-year-old civilian abducted with her boyfriend's family, and 80-year-old Gadi Moses, a German-Israeli. A video released by Islamic Jihad showed Moses and Yehud together, smiling and embracing.
Additionally, five Thai workers are included in this third exchange. In return, Israel will free 110 Palestinian prisoners, including 32 serving life sentences, according to a Palestinian NGO.
Another release is scheduled for Saturday, involving three more hostages, all male and confirmed to be alive.