TEL AVIV, Israel (NC) — Israel released 183 Palestinian prisoners on Friday in exchange for three hostages held by Hamas, officials from both sides confirmed. The exchange, the fifth under a fragile ceasefire agreement, included prisoners convicted of terrorist offenses.
The release is part of ongoing efforts to de-escalate tensions under the current ceasefire. However, the exchange remains contentious, with strong reactions from both Israeli and Palestinian communities.
Details of the Release
The prisoners released by Israel included individuals convicted of involvement in attacks and those detained without trial since the October 7 Hamas attack on southern Israel, according to a statement from the Israel Prison Service.
Eighteen of those released were serving life sentences for deadly attacks against Israelis, and 54 were serving long sentences. An Israeli official, speaking on condition of anonymity, stated that seven prisoners convicted of the most serious crimes were transferred to Egypt for deportation.
Palestinian advocacy groups describe those released as freedom fighters resisting Israeli occupation. According to these groups, a significant portion of the Palestinian population has had family or friends imprisoned by Israel.
In contrast, Israeli government spokespersons have described the released prisoners as terrorists, citing their conviction records.
The exchange included 111 Palestinians detained without trial following the October 7 attack, confirmed a representative from Hamas. Among those released were Iyad Abu Shakhdam, imprisoned for nearly 21 years for participation in Hamas operations, and Jamal al-Tawil, a Hamas politician from the West Bank, according to Palestinian sources.
Hostages Freed
Hamas released three Israeli hostages: Eli Sharabi, 52, Ohad Ben Ami, 56, and Or Levy, 34. The hostages were among those abducted during the October 7 attack.
Upon their return, medical officials noted that the hostages appeared to be in poorer physical condition than those previously released. The Prime Minister’s office released a statement welcoming the captives home.
Ceasefire Status
Negotiations are ongoing regarding the second phase of the agreement, in which Hamas is expected to release more hostages in exchange for additional prisoners and a lasting ceasefire. The details of these negotiations remain confidential.
The future of the ceasefire remains uncertain, with both sides expressing reservations.
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