Hamas has released the names of the four female Israeli soldiers who will be exchanged on Saturday for Palestinian prisoners. This exchange is part of the second phase of a three-stage ceasefire agreement between Hamas and Israel. The soldiers, Karina Ariev, Daniella Gilboa, Naama Levy, and Liri Albag, were captured during Hamas-led attacks on army outposts and villages in southern Israel on October 7, 2023. They will be exchanged for 200 Palestinian prisoners as part of the first six-week phase of the ceasefire.
Under the terms of the agreement, Israel agreed to release 50 Palestinian prisoners for each Israeli soldier held in Gaza and 30 for each female captive during the first phase. Negotiations for the second phase of the agreement, which is set to begin on February 4, will focus on the release of the remaining captives. The third phase will address the rebuilding and long-term governance of Gaza.
The response to the first exchange of prisoners was mixed. In the occupied West Bank, many celebrated the release of Palestinian prisoners, while in Israel, there was relief mixed with anger from some who saw the exchange as a defeat in the war on Gaza. Israeli forces ordered Palestinians not to celebrate the releases, fearing how it would be perceived. Reports of police removing flags and signs, as well as restricting social media activity, were reported.
Palestinian prisoners in Israeli jails face dire conditions, with reports of mistreatment and lack of basic necessities. Many are held under administrative detention, allowing Israeli authorities to hold them indefinitely without charge. The treatment of Palestinian prisoners in Israeli jails has been heavily criticized by human rights groups.