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In the first phase of a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas, eight of 43 captured or missing hostages were confirmed dead. The remaining 35, including seven who had previously been released, are alive, according to Israeli officials. Hamas has reportedly claimed responsibility for the victims’ deaths without comment on their cause of death.
The deal, which began on January 19, aims to free hundreds of Palestinian prisoners while allowing hundreds of Israelis and civilians to return home after more than a year of separation caused by ongoing hostilities following the October 7 attacks.
Of the 26 remaining hostages set to be released in phase one, 21 are men, three women, and two children. Their release marks the beginning of a reprieve for Gaza, which has endured harsh conditions with tens of thousands displaced due to relentless airstrikes.
Among the recent releases, seven women spent over eight months in captivity. Israeli medical officials noted that many suffered from malnutrition, low vitamin levels, and mental health challenges. Hamas has reportedly provided better care and feeding to these hostages, according to Palestinian officials, as part of propaganda efforts.
The release of nearly 2000 prisoners also highlights the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, where entire communities have been displaced by war. Tens of thousands are beginning to return home, though many neighborhoods remain under severe airstrike and ground raid operations.
In a significant development, female Israeli soldier Karina Ariev, Daniella Gilboa, Naama Levy (20 years old), and Liri Albag (19) were among the first to be freed. Their stable condition was confirmed by hospital director Noam Yosha. Meanwhile, Palestinian Islamic Jihad released a video of Arbel Yehud, reportedly recently captured, with her family requesting its suppression.
Medical officer Avi Benov emphasized that the seven women released so far showed signs of starvation and vitamin deficiency, while their mental health remains complex. He stated that they were provided with vitamins and modest food during their first medical check-up but faced challenges in washing and dressing before being reunified with their families.
Benov suggested that Hamas may have ensured better conditions for the captives as part of its propaganda strategy. He also warned that older hostages returning home later this week may face harsher living conditions due to prolonged captivity. While he declined to comment on whether torture was evident, his remarks underscore the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza.
This ongoing conflict continues to shape one of the most fragile borders in the world, with significant implications for the well-being of millions. Further developments will be closely monitored as the situation evolves.
Source: https://edition.cnn.com/2025/01/27/middleeast/israel-hamas-eight-hostages-dead-intl/index.html