Hamas frees three Israeli hostages in exchange for 90 Palestinian prisoners

Hamas has released three hostages captured during its unprecedented October 7, 2023, attack on Israel.

The release was part of the ceasefire agreement mediators negotiated between both warring parties.

Israel confirmed the reception of the three hostages released Sunday evening.

“The 3 released hostages have arrived at the initial reception point in southern Israel, where they will be reunited with their mothers,” the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) said in a statement.

“IDF officers from the Manpower Directorate and IDF medical officials are accompanying the released hostages during an initial medical assessment.

“IDF representatives are accompanying their families at the hospital and updating them with the latest available information.”

The news sparked jubilant scenes in Tel Aviv, where large crowds gathered for news of their release.

The three freed Israeli hostages—the first of 33 to be released over the next six weeks—are Romi Gonen, Doron Steinbrecher, and Emily Damari.

In exchange, 90 Palestinian prisoners and detainees will also be released from Israeli prisons.

Hamas said it is committed to the ceasefire agreement and the timeline for the release of the hostages—if Israel is, too.