Key facts
- Israel released 35 Palestinian detainees.
- The detainees were handed over by the Red Cross to Nasser Medical Complex in Khan Younis, southern Gaza.
- This release is part of a larger exchange involving hundreds of Palestinian prisoners and Israeli captives.
- The initial phase of a ceasefire agreement is expiring, with discussions underway for a second phase.
- Negotiators are discussing the release of remaining captives and a full Israeli withdrawal from Gaza.
Israel has released 35 Palestinian detainees, who were subsequently handed over by the Red Cross to the Nasser Medical Complex in Khan Younis, southern Gaza. This action is part of a broader, multi-stage ceasefire agreement with Hamas.
The release marks the final batch of Palestinian prisoners freed in the initial phase of the agreement. In total, over 2,000 Palestinian prisoners and detainees have been released in exchange for 25 living Israeli captives and the remains of eight others held in Gaza. The first phase also saw a pause in Israel's bombardment of Gaza and withdrawal from some positions.
Released detainees described horrific conditions, including beatings, humiliation, lack of medical treatment, and inadequate food. Despite the ceasefire, Israeli forces have reportedly continued to violate it, with Palestinian health officials reporting deaths in recent days. The humanitarian protocol for the first phase, including the delivery of essential aid like tents and mobile homes, has also not been fully implemented.
As the initial phase nears its expiration, Israeli, Qatari, and US officials have begun intensive discussions in Cairo regarding the second phase of the agreement. These talks aim to secure the release of the remaining captives, believed to be fewer than half of the 59 still held in Gaza, and to achieve a full withdrawal of Israeli forces from the territory. Mediators are also focused on enhancing humanitarian aid delivery to Gaza.