In a significant development, the Israeli army has confirmed the handover of three hostages by Hamas. The women, identified as Emily Damari, Doron Steinbrecher, and Romi Gonen, were picked up in Gaza by Red Cross officials and have since been safely returned to Israel. These women are the first of a total of 33 Israeli hostages to be released as part of a six-week ceasefire currently in effect in Gaza.
The news of the hostages’ release has brought relief and joy to their families, who are eagerly awaiting their reunion. Upon their return, the women will undergo medical checks to ensure their well-being after their ordeal in captivity.
In response to this development, DW Correspondent Tania Krämer provides insights into the situation, shedding light on the latest developments and the broader implications of this gesture by Hamas. Shani Rozanes, a DW Middle East analyst, offers further analysis on the implications of the hostages’ release on the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas.
Oliver McTernan, a conflict negotiator of Forward Thinking, weighs in on the significance of this humanitarian gesture in the context of peacebuilding efforts in the region. Additionally, Maya Roman, a relative of two Israeli hostages taken on October 7th, shares her thoughts and emotions surrounding this momentous occasion.
As the hostages begin their journey back home and families eagerly await their return, the release of these women marks a glimmer of hope and progress towards peace in a region marred by conflict. The handover of the hostages by Hamas signifies a step towards reconciliation and fostering dialogue between the warring factions.
For more news and updates on this developing story, stay tuned to DW News.
Watch the video by DW News
Video “Israeli army confirms handover of hostages | DW News” was uploaded on 01/19/2025 to Youtube Channel DW News