Israel has released three hostages held captive by Hamas for nearly 500 days. The hostages, Sagui Dekel Chen, Alexander Sasha Troufanov, and Iair Horn, were abducted during a Hamas attack on Kibbutz Nir Oz in October 2023.
Amazon, where the hostages worked as engineers, remained silent over their captivity, sparking widespread criticism. Amazon’s management advised employees to avoid public support for efforts to secure their freedom, seen as an attempt to maintain neutrality.
The release of the hostages was part of a deal between Israel and Hamas, which also included the release of 369 Palestinian security prisoners in exchange for hostages captured during a 2002 terror attack in Tel Aviv. The released prisoners were given sweatshirts bearing the message “We will not forget nor forgive” as they left Israeli prisons.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu welcomed home the three men, stating that preparations are underway for “what comes next.” The release of the hostages marks an end to a long and excruciating period of captivity, with many families and activists expressing relief and gratitude.
However, not all hostages were released. Matan Zangauker, who was kidnapped during the same attack, remains in Hamas captivity. His mother confirmed that he is alive but being kept alongside other living hostages.
The release of the hostages has sparked renewed tensions between Israel and Hamas, with Hamas displaying a photo of Matan Zangauker’s image on stage, hinting at his continued captivity.
Source: https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/2025-02-15/live-updates-842201