Ceasefire Begins as Israel, Hamas Prepare for Hostage Release
A ceasefire between Israel and Hamas commenced today, marking a crucial step toward ending the nearly two-year conflict triggered by the October 7, 2023, attack and initiating the release of remaining hostages held in Gaza.
Currently, 48 hostages remain in Gaza, including the body of an Israeli soldier killed in 2014, with Israel determining at least 25 were killed on October 7th or died while in captivity. Only one female hostage is believed to still be alive, though Israel believes she died in captivity. The agreement stipulates the release of these hostages within 72 hours, in exchange for approximately 2,000 Palestinian prisoners held by Israel. The fate of those held captive has been a central focus of international concern and domestic pressure within Israel.
Among those awaiting release are Matan Angrest, a 22-year-old soldier kidnapped from his tank unit, and fraternal twins Gali and Ziv Berman, abducted from Kibbutz Kfar Aza. Families have maintained relentless advocacy for their loved ones’ return. Anat Angrest, Matan’s mother, pleaded at a rally earlier this week, “I know you’re in pain, and I can’t hug you. I hear you whisper, ‘Come for me, Mom,’ and I can’t protect you.” Other hostages include Maxim Herkin, abducted from the Nova music festival, and Rom Braslavski, who appeared in harrowing videos released by Hamas. For more information on the ongoing conflict, see the Council on Foreign Relations’ coverage.
The exchange also includes the bodies of 28 deceased hostages, revealing the deaths of individuals previously listed as missing. Bipin Joshi, a Nepali student working in Israel, and Tamir Nimrodi, kidnapped from Erez crossing, are among those whose fates have been confirmed. Israeli officials stated they expect the full exchange to be completed within the agreed-upon timeframe, and are prepared to continue negotiations for any remaining individuals unaccounted for. You can find a list of the hostages here.
Israeli authorities have indicated they will continue to assess the situation and are prepared to respond to any violations of the ceasefire agreement.
