Official statements from Hamas or reports from mediators

Hamas to Release Four Female Israeli Soldiers—Ariev, Gilboa, Levy, and Albag—Saturday; Civilian Hostage Excluded

Jan 24, 2025, 01:15 PM

Hamas announced that it will release four female Israeli hostages on Saturday as part of the ongoing ceasefire agreement with Israel. The militant group provided the names of the women: Karina Ariev, Daniella Gilboa, Naama Levy, and Liri Albag, all of whom are Israeli soldiers. Israeli authorities confirmed receipt of the list and are preparing for the exchange, which is expected to include the release of Palestinian prisoners. Despite Israel's request for the release of civilian hostage Arbel Yehud, she was not included in the list. Hamas is also expected to provide information on the status of 30 other hostages on Saturday. The exchange follows the first phase of the ceasefire agreement, during which several hostages were released. The process involves coordination with mediators, and Israel is awaiting further details from Hamas.